Kulusevski’s Message Have SPARKED a REACTION from Man City Fans! See Their ANGRY Responses
Dejan Kulusevski has suggested he may not feature in Tottenham’s starting lineup when they take on Manchester City in a crucial Premier League clash on Wednesday. The Swedish winger has been one of Ange Postecoglou’s most relied-upon players this season, delivering consistent performances despite the physically demanding schedule.
His latest contribution came in Spurs’ 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town, where he registered his 20th goal contribution across all competitions. However, with injuries forcing him to start 15 of Tottenham’s last 18 matches and play the full 90 minutes in most of those, fatigue is starting to take its toll.
Kulusevski Admits to Struggles with Intense Fixture Load
Speaking to Sky Sports Premier League, Kulusevski acknowledged the physical and mental strain of playing so frequently, revealing that he has often taken to the pitch at less than full fitness.
“It’s tough, of course, because it’s too many games,” the 24-year-old admitted. “There are times when you’re only feeling 40 or 50 percent, but you still have to go out and perform. That’s not how it should be.”
The relentless schedule has forced Kulusevski to adapt his playing style, using more intelligence and energy management rather than relying purely on his usual dynamism.
“When I realize I can’t make those same runs up the field in every game, I have to start thinking differently,” he explained. “I have to conserve energy and be smarter in possession—holding the ball in the right moments instead of always pushing forward.”
Player Burnout Becomes a Growing Concern
Kulusevski is far from the only footballer expressing concerns about the relentless fixture congestion. His struggles mirror those of Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder, who earlier in the season openly admitted that the sheer volume of matches was affecting his physical condition. Not long after, Rodri suffered a serious knee injury, further highlighting the dangers of overloading players.
City boss Pep Guardiola has also been vocal about the growing issue, arguing that only the players themselves have the power to enforce meaningful change.
“Many voices are speaking up about the players’ welfare,” Guardiola said. “If something is going to change, it must come from the players themselves. They are the only ones who hold real power.”
Guardiola emphasized that while football could survive without managers, sporting directors, or owners, the game cannot function without the players.
“The business can continue without us managers, without directors, even without the media. But without the players, there is no game,” he continued. “If they decide to take a stand, it would be for the betterment of football—to make the game more attractive and sustainable.”
Manchester City Also Suffering from Injury Crisis
Tottenham are not the only club struggling with injuries due to the intense fixture schedule. Manchester City have also faced their share of setbacks, with key players like Erling Haaland missing matches due to physical strain.
Ahead of Wednesday’s match, Guardiola once again voiced his frustration with the demands placed on modern footballers.
“It’s too many games,” the Spaniard said. “More than 50 matches in a season—it’s just too much for the human body to handle. The physical strain is enormous, and it’s affecting players’ long-term health.”
Spurs Face a Tough Test Against Man City
With Kulusevski’s fatigue potentially keeping him out of the starting lineup, Postecoglou may have to shuffle his squad for the clash against City. Tottenham have a strong track record against Guardiola’s side, often exploiting their high-possession style with quick counter-attacks. However, Spurs’ injury issues and Kulusevski’s exhaustion could limit their attacking options.
Whether Kulusevski is benched or plays through the fatigue, the game against Manchester City will be a major test for Tottenham’s squad depth. With fixture congestion continuing to take its toll, the debate over player workload and burnout is only set to intensify.
