Udinese forward Gerard Deulofeu was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham before undergoing a knee operation in January, admitting he’s ‘suffering’ in a footballing sense.
The 29-year-old Spanish winger shined in the early stages of the 2022-23 season, scoring three goals and providing seven assists in his first 18 appearances of the campaign. His work attracted the attention of Spurs, who reportedly agreed terms with Udinese in that January transfer window.
Deulofeu suffered a knee injury in mid-November but briefly returned before he was ultimately forced to undergo an operation in late January. Nine months later, he still isn’t back on the pitch yet.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, Deulofeu was honest when discussing his knee injury and the subsequent recovery, underlining the difficulties of his time on the sidelines.
“I’m fine, when you’re happy with your family this is already important. On the football aspect… I’m suffering. My knee is waging war on me, I already suffered a lot a few years ago.
“I’m trying to recover as best I can. Injury in football is the worst part. I know I still have many years of my career left, so I want to come back well. I want to return to 100%, I will return when I am at a good level.”
He was asked when he thought he’d be back on the pinch.
“I don’t know, I don’t know because with this knee it’s difficult to say a date. Soon, as soon as possible, soon for sure.”
Since his arrival at Udinese, Deulofeu has scored 18 goals and provided 14 assists in 68 appearances across all competitions.