Dele Alli’s long-awaited return to competitive football is finally on the horizon, as the former Tottenham and England midfielder has been named in Como’s matchday squad for their Serie A encounter against AS Roma. The 28-year-old, who has endured a turbulent career in recent years, has not made a competitive appearance since February 2023 but is now set for a fresh start in Italy under the guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas.
Como, currently striving to secure their Serie A status, signed Dele in January on an 18-month contract with an option to extend for another year. The club, backed by significant investment, has been ambitious in the transfer market, and Dele’s inclusion in the squad signals their belief in his potential to reignite his career.
Once considered one of England’s brightest prospects, Dele was an integral part of Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham side that reached the 2019 Champions League final. However, after Pochettino’s departure, he struggled under successive managers, including Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte. His move to Everton in 2022 failed to reignite his form, and a subsequent loan spell at Besiktas was equally unfruitful.
Off the pitch, Dele has faced personal struggles, bravely opening up in 2023 about his battles with mental health, a sleeping pill addiction, and the trauma of childhood abuse. Despite these challenges, he has expressed a strong determination to return to the highest level, with aspirations of making the England squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Now, as he prepares for a potential return to action at the Stadio Olimpico, all eyes will be on whether Dele can take this opportunity to revive his once-promising career. His journey has been one of ups and downs, but Como’s faith in him suggests that a new chapter is about to begin