Dejan Kulusevski made his first competitive appearance in 526 days as he came off the bench during Tottenham's Premier League meeting with Coventry. The Swedish playmaker has been out since May 2025 with a complicated patella injury which has required two separate surgeries.
Return to the Matchday Squad
His return to action has been marred by setbacks, but having travelled to Old Trafford last weekend for Spurs' 1-1 draw with Manchester United, Kulusevski was named in the matchday squad against Coventry.
Kulusevski's emotional return to the side was described by De Zerbi as the "greatest news since the Everton game (when Spurs secured Premier League survival on the final day of last season)."
Emotional Welcome at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Ahead of his first appearance since Spurs' 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on 11 May 2025, Kulusevski posted on social media, stating: "And I see you tomorrow. I told you I would be back. Now is the time."
His name was loudly cheered before kick-off against Coventry, and he was given a hero's welcome as he came out to warm up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Hero's Reception on the Pitch
The 26-year-old was then given a rapturous reception, with Spurs 2-1 up in the 87th minute, as he entered the pitch to replace the stricken Omar Marmoush. He then received rapturous applause as he took his first touches, receiving a pass from Archie Gray.
Elsewhere on the night, James Maddison made his first Tottenham start since April 2025 and marked it with an early goal.
