Sweden head coach Graham Potter has confirmed his 26-man World Cup squad without Tottenham midfielder Dejan Kulusevski, ending the player's year-long fight to recover from a knee injury. The 26-year-old suffered the setback in May 2025 during Spurs' 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace and has yet to resume full training. This omission dashes his hopes of competing on football's grandest stage, hosted this time with matches across the United States.

Potter Confirms Kulusevski's Prolonged Absence

Kulusevski's injury demanded two surgeries and forced him into intensive rehabilitation abroad, away from Tottenham's Hotspur Way facilities. Despite his determination, he missed all competitive action this season, blocking any chance to demonstrate match fitness. Potter's final selection reflects the unforgiving timelines of international tournaments, where players must prove readiness in high-stakes environments.

De Zerbi Voices Early Skepticism on Return

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi anticipated this outcome, highlighting the absence of game time as a key obstacle. "For me, it’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn’t play any games this season," De Zerbi remarked. His doubts underscore the challenges club coaches face balancing player recovery with national team demands, especially amid packed domestic schedules.

Sweden Squad Retains Premier League Strength

Sweden's attack stays potent without Kulusevski, featuring Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres and Liverpool forward Alexander Isak. Tottenham prospect Lucas Bergvall earns a call-up, joining other English-based talents like Brighton's Yasin Ayari, Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof, Leeds' Gabriel Gudmundsson, and Newcastle's Anthony Elanga. Potter blends defensive experience with forward dynamism for their Texas training base.

Group F Tests Demand Quick Adaptation

Sweden opens Group F against Tunisia on June 15, followed by clashes with the Netherlands and Japan. Kulusevski's creativity would have aided breakthroughs against these opponents, placing extra pressure on Potter's selected players to advance. The group stage in Texas sets a tough path, where depth and form will determine progression to the knockouts.