Dele Alli reportedly considering retirement at 29 after falling out of Cesc Fabregas’ plans at Como
Dele Alli’s long-awaited return to the pitch in 2025 had been one of the most anticipated moments of the year for fans, following a difficult stretch marked by injuries and off-field struggles. But the former England international now finds himself at a crossroads once again, with reports from Italy suggesting the 29-year-old is contemplating retirement after falling out of Cesc Fabregas’ plans at Como 1907.
After injuries derailed his time at Tottenham Hotspur, Alli made a free transfer to Everton in a bid to revive his career. But that move failed to deliver a turnaround, including an unsuccessful loan stint at Turkish side Besiktas. By July 2024, he was once again a free agent.
Como were preparing for their first season back in Serie A in over 20 years, with a revamped project led by former Barcelona and Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas, who took over as head coach. The Spanish manager welcomed Alli to train informally with the team before the midfielder officially signed an 18-month contract in January 2025, with an option to extend for another year.
Alli joined Como during the club’s winter training camp in Andalusia, Spain, in hopes of regaining full fitness. There was cautious optimism that the former Premier League standout could inject quality and experience into a young squad. But just months later, that hope appears to have faded.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the arrivals of young midfielders Martin Baturina (€18 million) and Nico Paz from Real Madrid, combined with the emergence of Lucas Da Cunha and Maxence Caqueret, have pushed Alli out of the rotation. Currently, as Como continue their preseason training in Marbella, Alli is working out separately with the group of out-of-favor players.
After turning 29 in April, Alli had hoped that Como could be the setting for a professional rebirth. But his exclusion from Fabregas’ tactical plans, with one year remaining on his deal, has reportedly led him to consider whether it’s time to step away from the game altogether.
Just one appearance in Como colors
After signing with Como in January, expectations were high for Alli to contribute as a veteran leader and creative spark. However, he has featured in just one official match, and it ended in dramatic fashion.
Alli made his Serie A debut on March 15 against AC Milan, coming on in the 81st minute for Da Cunha. It was his first appearance in a competitive match in over two years. But in the 91st minute, he was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on former Chelsea teammate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
The moment went viral, as England teammate Kyle Walker was seen pleading with the referee not to send Alli off. Despite the show of support, the decision stood. Since serving his suspension, Alli has been named to the bench in seven subsequent matches—but Fabregas has yet to give him another opportunity. Now, with limited chances and increasing competition within the squad, Dele Alli may be facing a difficult but defining decision about the future of his career.