Dele Alli takes huge step towards career revival two years on from last match
Dele Alli took a significant step in his football journey as he was named in Como’s matchday squad for the first time this weekend. After more than two years without playing a competitive match, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Everton midfielder moved closer to making his long-awaited return.
At 28, he found himself listed as number eight on Como’s squad sheet for their clash against Roma, with the club expressing excitement over his inclusion, stating, “First one for Dele! We’re buzzing, just like you guys.” His return to action has been a long process, having started training with Cesc Fabregas’ side over Christmas.
Initially, the club remained cautious about what that meant for his future, with Fabregas himself acknowledging at the time that the priority was simply helping him regain fitness rather than making immediate plans for his return to competitive football.
Alli’s career has seen a sharp decline in recent years. Once a crucial player for Tottenham, he struggled to maintain regular playing time, eventually seeing his role diminish.
During his time at Spurs, he made 269 appearances before securing a £10 million move to Everton. However, his time at Goodison Park was short-lived, managing just 13 appearances before becoming a free agent. Injury setbacks further complicated his career, preventing him from securing another contract in the Premier League.
In July 2023, he publicly shared details about his struggles, including an addiction to sleeping pills that developed following his stint in Turkey.
Speaking about his experiences, he admitted it was the right time to open up, revealing that he had hidden his issues for a long time and had been scared to discuss them.
Reflecting on his past, Alli acknowledged that his return from Turkey marked a turning point when he realized he needed surgery.
Mentally, he found himself in a dark place, leading him to make the decision to check into a modern rehabilitation facility that specialized in mental health, addiction, and trauma recovery.
He emphasized that such a decision could not be forced upon someone, stating that individuals must recognize the need for help themselves for treatment to be effective. Caught in a destructive cycle, he knew it was time to seek the support he needed.
In an emotional revelation, Alli also spoke about his childhood trauma, including being sexually abused by a friend of his mother’s. He expressed deep gratitude to Everton for their unwavering support during one of the most challenging periods of his life.
Their honesty and understanding played a crucial role in helping him make the biggest decision of his career—choosing to prioritize his mental health. He admitted to having once contemplated retirement at just 24, a thought that now seems distant as he edges closer to returning to professional football.
| Career Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Tottenham Appearances | 269 |
| Transfer to Everton | £10 million |
| Everton Appearances | 13 |
| Time Without Playing | Over 2 years |
| Como Squad Inclusion | First time since return |
Making the Como squad represents a major milestone for Alli, proving that his resilience and determination have not wavered despite the challenges he has faced. His journey back to professional football has been anything but straightforward, yet his inclusion in the squad signals hope for a fresh start.
The road ahead remains uncertain, but this moment stands as a testament to his perseverance. If he manages to step onto the pitch again, it will mark not only a return to football but also a personal victory over the struggles that once threatened to end his career prematurely.