Tottenham have excluded Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus from their upcoming pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia, as both players continue their recovery from serious injuries. The decision reflects Roberto De Zerbi's cautious approach to their rehabilitation, with neither player yet ready to withstand the demands of international travel and competitive fixtures.
Kudus remains sidelined since January, when he sustained a significant quad injury during Tottenham's clash against Sunderland. Despite recent gym sessions at the club's Enfield training base suggesting progress, the medical team opted to keep the former West Ham midfielder in London rather than risk complications on a lengthy tour. His absence extends a frustrating period that has already cost him months of competitive action during a crucial period of the season.
Kulusevski's Extended Absence Raises Concerns
The situation surrounding Kulusevski proves even more troubling. The Swedish winger has now gone 14 months without playing a competitive fixture following patella surgery. He has not been present at Tottenham's training facility, deepening concerns about the severity of his knee condition. Once considered integral to De Zerbi's attacking plans, Kulusevski's prolonged layoff represents a significant blow to the club's summer rebuild.
Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons also remain in London continuing their injury rehabilitation. This quartet's absence from the 35-man touring squad underscores the physical challenges facing De Zerbi's squad as they prepare for the new campaign.
New Signings and Squad Rotation
On a brighter note, the tour party includes Tottenham's major summer arrivals. The club has invested £237 million in new talent, headlined by the £185 million pairing of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. Defenders Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Martin Dubravka will also experience their first pre-season with the club. Marcos Senesi has been granted extended leave following Argentina's World Cup final appearance, while goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was ruled out due to a minor training knock.
Tottenham finished 17th in the Premier League last season, their second consecutive campaign in that position, making the aggressive investment in fresh personnel essential for competitive recovery. De Zerbi remains bullish about the project, stating that the transfer window remains fluid with potential departures and arrivals still possible before the deadline. The pre-season tour will prove vital for integrating new faces into the Italian manager's tactical system ahead of the Premier League opener.
