The Tottenham midfielder missed the entire World Cup qualifying campaign, the subsequent play-off matches and the 2026 World Cup after suffering the injury in May 2025. His absence finally ended on October 19, when he returned to competitive action for Tottenham.
Sweden manager Graham Potter has now included the 26-year-old in his squad for the final two Nations League fixtures against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Poland.
However, it remains unclear how much football Kulusevski will be able to play. Having only recently returned to club action after such a lengthy rehabilitation, Sweden are working closely with Tottenham to manage his recovery and avoid placing unnecessary demands on him.
Potter explained that he wants to speak directly with the player before deciding how best to use him during the international break.
“I have to meet him, and then we work with Tottenham around him. We have close cooperation and a close dialogue,” Potter told Fotbollskanalen.
“We have a good idea about the plan.”
The Sweden manager reiterated that he wants to understand how Kulusevski is feeling and where he stands physically before deciding on his involvement.
“I want to meet Dejan to talk to him and hear where he is. But we have a good idea about the plan we can use for him. The fact that he is here is the most important thing for us.”
Kulusevski’s return is a significant boost for Sweden, who have been without one of their most influential attacking players throughout a difficult period. His versatility and creativity make him an important option for Potter, but the immediate priority is ensuring that he can return to international football safely.
The injury was sustained during Tottenham’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace on May 11, 2025. What initially appeared to be a problem that might keep him out for a shorter period developed into a complicated recovery, involving two operations and repeated setbacks.
His return against Coventry in October brought an end to the 526-day absence from competitive football. The midfielder was introduced from the bench, marking an important milestone after months of rehabilitation.
Sweden now face Bosnia and Herzegovina on November 14 before travelling to Poland three days later. Potter will hope to have Kulusevski involved, although the extent of his participation will depend on discussions with the player and Tottenham’s medical staff.
For Kulusevski, simply being back in the national-team environment represents another major step after an extremely difficult period away from the game.