Dele Alli pictured in training with new team as he links up with former Arsenal and Chelsea icon

Dele Alli, once a rising star in English football, is seeking to reignite his career with Serie A side Como. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Everton midfielder has been training with the club, managed by his former Premier League rival, Cesc Fabregas, in hopes of earning a contract.

Alli’s career trajectory has taken a significant downturn in recent years. After a meteoric rise at Tottenham, where he established himself as a key player and a regular for the England national team, his performances declined. A high-profile move to Everton in 2022 failed to revive his fortunes, and he struggled to find consistent playing time.

A subsequent loan spell at Beşiktaş in Turkey proved to be equally underwhelming, with Alli managing just two goals in 13 appearances. He returned to Everton but made no Premier League appearances in the 2022/23 season.

Alli’s struggles have been attributed to various factors, including injuries, loss of form, and personal issues. He has openly acknowledged the challenges he has faced, admitting to needing help with his mental health and checking into a clinic in the United States.

Now, at 28, Alli faces a crucial juncture in his career. A move to Como, a club with ambitions of climbing the Serie A table, could provide him with a fresh start and a chance to rediscover his best form under the guidance of Fabregas, a highly experienced and respected figure in the game.

Fabregas, a former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder, possesses a deep understanding of the English game and could provide valuable mentorship to Alli. The Spanish midfielder’s tactical acumen and creative passing could also help to unlock Alli’s potential and create scoring opportunities for the Englishman.

However, Alli faces stiff competition for a place in the Como squad. The club has a talented roster, including players like Patrick Cutrone and Fellipe Jack. He will need to impress in training and showcase his abilities in friendly matches to convince Fabregas and the club’s hierarchy that he is worthy of a contract.

The move to Como presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Alli. It is a chance for him to prove his doubters wrong, rediscover his confidence, and re-establish himself as a top-level player. However, it also carries the risk of further disappointment if he fails to adapt to a new league and environment.

Regardless of the outcome, Alli’s career serves as a cautionary tale for young players. The rapid rise to fame and fortune can be fleeting, and maintaining consistency and focus amidst the pressures of professional football can be challenging.

Alli’s journey also highlights the importance of mental health and well-being in professional sports. His openness about his struggles has helped to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage other athletes to seek help when needed.

As Alli embarks on this new chapter in his career, he will be hoping to rediscover the spark that once made him one of the most exciting young talents in English football. A successful spell at Como could reignite his career and pave the way for a return to the top level of the game.