After a surprising transfer to Como last summer, former Tottenham star Dele Alli finds himself at a career crossroads. Once a key player in the Premier League, scoring 51 goals in England’s top flight and earning 37 caps for England, his time in Italy has been far from successful. Despite high hopes, Alli managed just one substitute appearance under manager Cesc Fàbregas before his contract was terminated.
Why Dele Alli did not fit in Serie A
Former England defender Des Walker, who played in Italy during his own career, offered insight into Alli’s difficulties. In his view, Alli’s transfer to Como was essentially his “last chance” to revive his career. Unlike Scott McTominay, who seamlessly integrated at Naples with a top-tier club that actively pursued him, Alli arrived in Italy without the same level of support.
Walker highlighted the challenges of adapting to Italian football, especially for players used to the faster pace of English football. “The first four or five months are the hardest,” he explained. “In Italy, there’s no time for adjustment—you have to perform immediately, whether you’re a star or not.” Alli’s brief stint included a red card in his only appearance, further complicating his situation.
A career at a turning point
At 30, Alli remains without a club, training independently while exploring options. His career has taken a sharp downturn after unproductive spells at Everton and a loan at Beşiktaş. While clubs in lower leagues like Wrexham (backed by Ryan Reynolds) and Birmingham (linked to Tom Brady) have shown interest, a return to prominence will require more than just another move—it may demand a step back to rebuild.
Former manager Roberto Di Matteo, who once coached Alli as a teenager at MK Dons, reflected on his decline. “It’s hard to judge from the outside,” Di Matteo noted. “Something changed in his personal life, and it’s a shame we lost such a promising talent.” His future now hinges on finding the right environment to reignite his career.
What’s next for Dele Alli?
With the 2026-2027 season approaching, Alli remains determined to continue playing. However, opportunities at elite clubs seem increasingly distant, with whispers of a Real Madrid interest—once a realistic scenario—now fading into the past. For the Englishman, the path forward may lie in a less glamorous league or a rebuilding project where his experience could make a difference.
