In a significant development for both Tottenham Hotspur and the Romania national team, defender Radu Dragusin will not be joining his international teammates during the upcoming October international break. The decision comes after Tottenham made it clear to Romania’s coaching staff that they prefer the 23-year-old to remain at the club to focus on his rehabilitation from a serious injury. This move underscores Spurs’ cautious approach to managing their players’ fitness, particularly for a young talent like Dragusin, who is seen as a key part of their long-term defensive plans.
Dragusin has been sidelined since January 2025, when he suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear during a Europa League match against Elfsborg. The injury, a significant setback for the young defender, has kept him out of competitive action for nearly nine months. Despite his absence from the pitch, Dragusin has been making steady progress in his recovery. Tottenham manager Thomas Frank recently provided an optimistic update on the player’s condition, noting that Dragusin has been back on the training ground for three weeks and is progressing well. “He’s been on the grass for three weeks now. He is on track. It will be some weeks before he is able to be involved,” Frank said, signaling that while the Romanian is nearing a return, he is not yet ready for competitive matches.
Romania’s national team coach, Mircea Lucescu, had initially included Dragusin in the preliminary squad of overseas players for upcoming fixtures against Moldova and Austria. The inclusion reflected Lucescu’s confidence in Dragusin’s potential to contribute to the national team, even after such a long layoff. However, following discussions with both the player and Tottenham, Lucescu acknowledged that calling Dragusin up for international duty at this stage would be premature. Speaking to Romanian outlet Fanatik, Lucescu explained, “I spoke with him. He was very happy for the national team comeback, but I don’t think I will call him. Tottenham wasn’t so happy to let him come now at the national team. He needs one more month to play again. Radu wants to come, but others warned us it is better to let him train with Tottenham now.” This decision highlights the delicate balance between club and country when it comes to managing a player’s recovery from a major injury.
Dragusin’s importance to both Tottenham and Romania cannot be understated. The young defender made history when he transferred to Spurs from Genoa in January 2024 for a fee of £21.5 million, with an additional £4.3 million in potential add-ons, making him the most expensive Romanian footballer ever. During his time at Spurs, Dragusin has shown glimpses of his potential, making nine Premier League appearances in his debut season and featuring in 28 matches across all competitions last term before his injury. His versatility, physicality, and composure on the ball have marked him as a player with a bright future, both at club and international levels.
At Tottenham, Dragusin faces stiff competition for a starting spot in the heart of the defense. In his absence, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have solidified their positions as the club’s first-choice centre-back pairing, forming a formidable partnership under Frank’s management. However, Dragusin’s return to full fitness is expected to intensify competition within the squad, as the Romanian is determined to reclaim a regular place in the starting lineup. Club insiders are hopeful that he could be back in action before the end of October, potentially giving him a chance to make an impact in the latter stages of the Premier League and European competitions.
Tottenham’s cautious approach to Dragusin’s recovery is part of a broader strategy to manage their squad’s fitness during a demanding season. The club is also dealing with other injury concerns, with Frank confirming that Cristian Romero will miss Spurs’ upcoming Champions League match against Bodo/Glimt in Norway as a precautionary measure. Romero’s absence is a blow, but it reflects Tottenham’s commitment to ensuring their players are fully fit before returning to action. Additionally, striker Dominic Solanke is set to undergo minor ankle surgery, which will keep him sidelined until after the international break. On a more positive note, Frank revealed that forward Randal Kolo Muani is recovering well from a dead leg and could be available soon.
For Dragusin, the focus remains on completing his rehabilitation and regaining his match sharpness. His desire to represent Romania is evident, as Lucescu noted the player’s enthusiasm for a national team comeback. However, the consensus between club and country is that allowing Dragusin to continue his recovery under Tottenham’s supervision is the best course of action. This approach not only protects the player’s long-term health but also ensures that he can return to competitive football at his peak.
The situation also highlights the challenges faced by international managers when dealing with injured players at top clubs. Lucescu’s decision to respect Tottenham’s wishes demonstrates a pragmatic approach, prioritizing Dragusin’s recovery over a premature return to international duty. For Romania, the absence of Dragusin for the matches against Moldova and Austria is a setback, but the long-term benefits of having a fully fit and confident player outweigh the short-term loss.
As Tottenham continue their campaign across multiple competitions, including the Premier League, Europa League, and domestic cups, Dragusin’s return will be a welcome boost. His physical presence and defensive nous could prove vital in a congested fixture schedule, particularly as Spurs aim to compete on all fronts. For now, Dragusin’s focus will be on training diligently at Tottenham’s state-of-the-art facilities, working closely with the club’s medical and coaching staff to ensure he is ready to make an impact when he returns to the pitch.
The international break, while an opportunity for players to represent their countries, can often complicate club schedules, particularly when injuries are involved. Tottenham’s firm stance on Dragusin’s participation reflects a growing trend among top clubs to prioritize player welfare, especially for those recovering from long-term injuries. For Dragusin, the coming weeks will be crucial as he aims to prove his fitness and fight for a place in Frank’s plans. If his recovery continues on its current trajectory, fans can expect to see the Romanian defender back in action soon, ready to showcase the talent that made him a record-breaking signing for both Tottenham and Romanian football.