Europa League Final: Spurs Face Injury Headache

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·13 mai 2025

Europa League Final: Spurs Face Injury Headache

Fresh Concerns Over Dejan Kulusevski Ahead of Europa League Final

Tottenham Hotspur are approaching their most significant fixture of the campaign – the Europa League final against Manchester United on 21 May in Bilbao – with a growing injury list, and one name stands out: Dejan Kulusevski.

The Swedish playmaker limped off after just 18 minutes in Spurs’ 2-0 Premier League defeat to Crystal Palace, following a robust challenge from Marc Guehi. His immediate withdrawal and trip down the tunnel sparked concerns among fans, particularly given his pivotal role in Tottenham’s run to the final.

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However, manager Ange Postecoglou offered an encouraging update on Monday. Although Kulusevski did not participate in training that morning, early signs suggest the issue may not be serious.

“He was a bit sore this morning with his knee. It looks like a knock at this stage,” Postecoglou said.“We are going to let it settle for 24 hours and then assess it but the initial thing is it is more of a knock than anything more significant. Fingers crossed he is OK.”

The Swede was seen on the bench during the second half at Selhurst Park, further indicating the injury might be manageable. Club insiders remain optimistic he will recover in time to feature in the showpiece final in Spain.

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Potential return date: Aston Villa (a), 16 May 2025

Maddison Ruled Out For Season With Knee Injury

In contrast, there is no such optimism surrounding James Maddison. The influential midfielder sustained a knee injury in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt, a match Spurs won 3-1. Scans confirmed significant damage, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.

Postecoglou expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the key role Maddison has played in Tottenham’s campaign.

“I’m disappointed for him because he’s been a real catalyst for us. He’ll miss out but that’s been the story of our season.”

The injury not only rules Maddison out of the Europa League final but also casts doubt over his availability for the start of pre-season preparations. His absence will be a notable loss, both technically and emotionally, for a squad already stretched.

Potential return date: Next season

Bergvall’s Breakthrough Season Halted By Training Ground Injury

Lucas Bergvall’s breakthrough season in North London has come to a premature end after he sustained an ankle ligament injury in training. The timing was particularly cruel, occurring just before the first leg of the semi-final against Bodo/Glimt.

The 18-year-old had recently signed a six-year contract in recognition of his impressive performances since arriving in England, but his injury now sidelines him until the summer.

Postecoglou described the situation as “devastating” for the youngster, also criticising the early leak of the injury news.

“It’s not helpful… Lucas was devastated. He didn’t want to deal with it and we didn’t want to make it public… We wanted to protect him more than anything else, but those kinds of levels of decency and respect don’t exist anymore.”

Bergvall has since been seen wearing a protective boot and using crutches.

Potential return date: June 2025

Long-Term Recovery Continues For Dragusin

Spurs defender Radu Dragusin remains out following surgery on an ACL injury suffered in February. The club confirmed the procedure was successful, but his rehabilitation is expected to extend into the summer.

“Radu underwent surgery today following his ACL injury… the procedure has now been completed, and the centre-back will now commence with his recovery before beginning the rehab process,” read a club statement.

The Romanian’s absence has reduced defensive depth at a crucial stage of the campaign, and like Bergvall, he is not expected back until the off-season.

Potential return date: June 2025

Outlook For Spurs

With Dejan Kulusevski facing a race against time and James Maddison ruled out, Tottenham’s creative resources are under pressure. However, Postecoglou’s side has shown resilience throughout a season disrupted by fitness setbacks. Should Kulusevski return, it would be a significant boost for Spurs’ chances in their first European final since 2019.