Dele Alli to call it quits? Ex-Tottenham star considering retirement at 29 after being banished from Como squad by Cesc Fabregas

Dele's journey with Como began just over six months ago when he signed a free transfer after parting ways with Everton in the summer of 2024. He arrived on an 18-month contract, running through to next year, with an additional year available as an option. The move to Italy was seen as a fresh start after a difficult, injury-laden period in the Premier League. However, things have not gone according to plan for the former Tottenham midfielder.

His time in Serie A has been nothing short of turbulent. Dele made just one appearance for Como, a highly forgettable debut against AC Milan in March, which ended prematurely after he was sent off with a straight red card just 10 minutes into the match. Following his suspension, Dele returned to the squad but failed to make a single appearance for the rest of the campaign. He was an unused substitute in seven of the final eight games, with the only exception being a match he missed due to illness.

Dele has now been instructed to train separately from the main squad, an indication that he no longer features in Fabregas' tactical blueprint. He was notably absent from the squad for the pre-season fixtures against Lille, Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli, and Dutch giants Ajax, which has left him questioning whether he should continue with his professional career. 

Como are preparing to kick off their second consecutive season in Italy’s top flight with a clash at home against Lazio on August 24. Yet, barring a dramatic turnaround, it appears increasingly likely that Dele will play no role in that encounter.