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Tottenham Confirm Mo Kudus Nearing Return as De Zerbi Names 35-Player Squad for New Zealand Tour

Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that Mohamed Kudus is very close to returning after missing 23 matches since early January.

Asude Karataş • 26 Temmuz 2026 06:30 • 3 dk okuma • 12 görüntülenme

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that Mohamed Kudus is approaching availability after a muscle issue forced him to miss 23 matches since January. The club has announced a 35-player squad traveling to New Zealand and Sydney for preseason fixtures, with Kudus, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert, and Xavi Simons remaining in London for continued rehabilitation.

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Kudus Recovery Timeline
Tour Squad and Notable Absences

Kudus Recovery Timeline

De Zerbi addressed Kudus's fitness status during his first press conference in Auckland on Saturday. The winger's return has been eagerly anticipated after his extended absence derailed Tottenham's campaign. De Zerbi stated that Kudus would be available to begin training with the main squad once the traveling party returns to London, marking a significant step in his recovery process.

The injury setback occurred in late December, forcing Kudus to sit out the final stretch of the previous season across all competitions. His absence removed a crucial attacking option from Tottenham's midfield rotation during a critical period of the campaign.

Tour Squad and Notable Absences

Tottenham's 35-player traveling squad includes a mix of established first-team players, recent recruits, and academy prospects. New signings such as Andy Robertson and Jan Paul van Hecke join the touring party, alongside promising youth players including Luca Williams-Barnett, Tyler Tingey, and Mikey Moore. The group will face Auckland FC in New Zealand before traveling to Sydney to contest matches against Sydney Football Club and Chelsea.

Beyond Kudus, several players have remained at Hotspur Way: Kulusevski continues his rehabilitation following a season without competitive action, while Odobert and Simons are similarly undergoing recovery protocols. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario sustained a minor training injury requiring treatment at the club's facility rather than travel. Additionally, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero, and Djed Spence were granted extended leave after reaching the latter stages of the summer World Cup tournament.

When will Kudus be available to play?+

De Zerbi indicated Kudus will begin training with the squad upon their return to London. An exact match return date has not been disclosed, but his availability for competitive fixtures will depend on his progress during team sessions.

Why are World Cup players not on the tour?+

Players who reached the latter stages of the World Cup—including Porro, Senesi, Romero, and Spence—were granted extended rest to recover from tournament demands. Bentancur and Sarr received similar consideration following their international appearances.

What is Kulusevski's current status?+

De Zerbi stated that Kulusevski requires careful monitoring over the coming weeks. After a complete season without competitive play, the club is proceeding cautiously to avoid injury risk and ensure his full readiness before integrating him into the squad.

How serious is Vicario's injury?+

De Zerbi described Vicario's injury as not serious but requiring treatment at the training center for approximately one week. The goalkeeper will remain in London rather than travel with the touring squad.

Which new players are on the tour?+

Recruits including Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali are part of the 35-player squad. These additions will gain match fitness during preseason fixtures in New Zealand and Sydney.

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