Dele Alli's Como debut may not come until NEXT season as Cesc Fabregas calls for 'patience' with ex-Tottenham star after chronic fitness problems

After leaving Everton, the England international signed an 18-month contract with Cesc Fabregas' team as they look to avoid relegation in their first season back in Italy's top flight. However, the 28-year-old was not included in the squad for any of the five matches they have played since his arrival.

Dele has not played a competitive game since February 2023, when he was on loan at Besiktas and missed the entirety of last season because of injury problems. With his fitness issues ongoing, coach Fabregas is in no rush to throw the former Tottenham star into the fold, but confirmed he will be in full training with his team-mates from next week.

Fabregas told reporters: "He's working off the pitch at the moment. I don't want to put extra pressure on him, he hasn't played for months: from [Monday] he will be at full capacity with the group, after the personalised work of the last few weeks. He needs time, I spoke to him and I was clear with him: we are here to help him. We believe we can do it. We need patience to see him back on the pitch: please, let's stay calm. The last few months will be used to get back in shape for next season."

Dele will likely miss out as the Serie A side face title hopefuls Napoli on Sunday. Como head into the game off the back of an impressive 2-0 win at high-flying Fiorentina.