Dele Alli’s Abrupt Exit from Como: A Career Crossroads in Serie A

Dele Alli leaving the field after a red card during Como’s Serie A match against AC Milan at San Siro Stadium, March 2025.
Dele Alli walking off the pitch after receiving a red card in his Como debut against AC Milan. | Image Credit: Reuters/Daniele Mascolo


Discover why Dele Alli parted ways with Serie A club Como after just 10 minutes on the pitch. Explore his career struggles, injuries, and next steps in this exclusive football update. Follow for more insights!

Dele Alli’s Short-Lived Como Stint: A Tale of Talent and TribulationFormer Tottenham Hotspur and Everton star
Dele Alli has once again become a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with Serie A side Como on September 1, 2025, following a mere 10 minutes of competitive play. The 29-year-old midfielder, once hailed as one of England’s brightest talents, faced a challenging spell at Como, marked by a red card in his only appearance and ongoing injury setbacks. This article dives into the reasons behind his departure, his career trajectory, and what lies ahead for the former England international.

Disappointing Debut in Serie ADele Alli joined Como in January 2025 on an 18-month contract, hoping to revive his career under the guidance of head coach Cesc Fabregas. However, his debut against AC Milan on March 15, 2025, ended in disappointment. Entering the match as an 81st-minute substitute, Alli was sent off just nine minutes later for a reckless tackle on Ruben Loftus-Cheek, following a VAR review. This red card marred his long-awaited return to professional football after over two years sidelined by injuries and personal challenges.Why Did Dele Alli Leave Como?The decision to part ways was mutual, driven by Alli’s desire for regular playing time and Como’s shift in strategy under Fabregas. A joint statement from the club and player read:

“Como 1907 and Dele Alli have agreed to a mutual termination of his contract. Dele is eager to have regular playing opportunities and, as he was not part of the club’s immediate plans, both parties felt it was the right decision to part ways before the transfer window closed.”

Alli’s limited involvement—excluded from pre-season friendlies and training separately from the squad—signaled his lack of fit in Fabregas’ plans. Reports indicate that despite initial optimism, Alli struggled to regain the form that made him a standout at Tottenham, where he recorded 51 goals and 34 assists in 194 Premier League appearances.A Career Plagued by ChallengesAlli’s career has been a rollercoaster. After bursting onto the scene at Tottenham and earning a spot in England’s 2018 World Cup semifinal squad, his trajectory was derailed by recurring injuries, including hip and groin issues, and personal struggles. In a 2023 interview with Gary Neville on The Overlap, Alli revealed he had faced childhood trauma, including sexual abuse, and battled addiction to sleeping pills, leading to a six-week stint in rehab.His move to Everton in 2022 yielded only 13 appearances, followed by a loan to Besiktas cut short by injury. Como offered a fresh start, but Alli’s brief tenure underscores the physical and mental toll of his journey. Despite these setbacks, at 29, he remains determined to continue his playing career, dismissing earlier speculation about retirement.What’s Next for Dele Alli?As a free agent, Alli now faces a critical juncture. His experience and pedigree make him an attractive option for clubs in Europe or beyond, but his injury history and recent lack of game time may deter suitors. Fans and analysts alike hope he can find a club offering consistent minutes to rediscover his spark. Potential destinations could include mid-table Premier League sides, Championship clubs, or even leagues in the MLS or Saudi Pro League, where he could rebuild his career.Authoritative BacklinksShareable Quote:
“Dele Alli’s journey reminds us that talent alone isn’t enough—resilience and opportunity are key to a footballer’s redemption.” – Kishwar Khan, The Football Hub


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