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WILL DEJAN KULUSEVSKI PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Dejan Kulusevski is one of those players who combines power, talent, and personality. At just 25 years old, the Swedish winger has already established himself as an undisputed star at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and one of the brightest prospects in Scandinavian football. But the big question among Nordic fans is unavoidable: will we see Kulusevski at the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we review his story, his statistics, the current state of the Swedish national team, and the real chances of "Kulu" shining at the World Cup in North America.
From Stockholm to the Premier League
Dejan Kulusevski was born in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2000, the son of Macedonian immigrants. From a young age, he displayed exceptional ball skills: left-footed, technically gifted, and with extraordinary vision. His training at the IF Brommapojkarna academy, known for producing elite Swedish talent, was the starting point of a meteoric career.
At 16, he made the leap to Italy, signing for Atalanta. He quickly made his Serie A debut, but his breakthrough came on loan to Parma in 2019, where he was chosen as "Serie A Young Player of the Year." That same year, Juventus paid more than €35 million for him, an enormous sum for a player of his age. With Juventus he won the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa, but his best form emerged after joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2022. In London, Kulusevski found the ideal setting. Under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, the Swede has shone as a right winger, combining speed, physical strength, and precise crossing. Furthermore, his tactical intelligence and work ethic have made him a key player for the team. Over 100 appearances for Tottenham since 2022. Averages 7 goals and 10 assists per season. Final third pass efficiency: 82%. Among the top 5 players with the most successful dribbles in the 2024-25 Premier League. His consistency has led several analysts to consider him the natural successor to Zlatan Ibrahimović as the face of the new era of Swedish football. Although they are very different players, they both share a key trait: the ambition to take Sweden to the top.
The Swedish national team seeks its return
Sweden failed to qualify for the 2022 Qatar World Cup, a bitter disappointment for fans. However, with a young and promising crop of players, the Scandinavian team is determined to return in 2026. Kulusevski, along with Alexander Isak (Newcastle) and Emil Forsberg, leads this new project, hungry for revenge.
The new manager, Jon Dahl Tomasson, has implemented a more attacking style of play, seeking to capitalize on the creativity of players like Kulusevski. The Tottenham winger not only brings attacking flair but also defensive work and leadership in the dressing room. At 25 years old, he is considered the team's moral compass.
Statistics with the Swedish National Team
More than 45 international matches with Sweden.
10 goals and 14 assists with the senior national team.
Average of 2.7 successful dribbles per game.
He participated in Euro 2020 and was one of the key players in the Round of 16.
Kulusevski stands out not only for his statistics, but also for his influence. In every match, he offers himself as a constant outlet, dropping deep to receive the ball, assisting, and pressing relentlessly. His playing style embodies the modern Swedish philosophy: equal parts intensity and quality.
Can Sweden qualify?
The road won't be easy. In the European qualifiers, Sweden will have to compete with teams like Belgium, Denmark, and Croatia. Even so, the expanded format of the 2026 World Cup (48 teams) offers more spots for Europe, increasing their chances. Current projections give Sweden around a 60% probability of qualifying, provided they maintain their attacking prowess.
If they secure a place, Kulusevski would arrive at his peak: 26 years old, with Premier League experience and established leadership. Without a doubt, he would be one of the most anticipated Scandinavian figures in the tournament.
More than a winger: discipline, character, and roots
Dejan Kulusevski is not just a talented footballer. Behind his serious demeanor lies a story of sacrifice and a winning mentality. His Macedonian heritage gave him a special connection to the culture of hard work, while his upbringing in Sweden instilled in him discipline and humility.
Fun Facts about Kulusevski
He speaks five languages: Swedish, English, Italian, Macedonian, and Spanish.
He is a basketball fanatic and a supporter of the Golden State Warriors.
He wears number 21 in honor of his sister, who supported him in his early days in Italy.
He has followed a vegan diet since 2021 to improve his physical performance.
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