Dele Alli Faces Uphill Battle to Revive Career

Former Tottenham Star Searching for Opportunity

Dele Alli, the 29-year-old attacking midfielder, is currently a free agent after being released by Como in September 2025, having made only one substitute appearance for the club that resulted in a red card. His search for a new team is proving hard, with warnings that opportunities are becoming increasingly limited.

Recent Struggles and Expert Analysis

The former England international has faced challenges with form, injuries, and managerial relationships in recent years. Stephan Carr, an ex-Spurs defender, recently shared his concerns about Alli’s situation with GOAL.

It’s scary how he’s fallen. He’s only 29, just gone past being in his peak, but the amount of football he has played in the last few years is very low.

Stephan Carr, via GOAL

Carr emphasized the difficulty of returning to form after a prolonged period without regular play.

It’s very hard. It’s no different to when you obtain injured, you do all the training and getting back fit takes time. He’s missed a lot of football. The way he sounds, it seems he still has the hunger. But his chances are getting very slim now.

Stephan Carr, via GOAL

Last Chance Saloon?

Despite his past successes – including being named PFA Young Player of the Year in two consecutive seasons with Tottenham Hotspur – Carr believes Alli may now face a trial situation.

Wherever he ends up, he isn’t going to get to pick. It could be a trial where you have to prove it. It’s whether he has the stomach for that. I’ve done it myself, going for a trial. For me, it didn’t bother me. It’s very difficult, it’s a different situation. I don’t know the lad, his personality or the people around him. He has fallen from grace dramatically. It’s very difficult to get back in. I know your head says it, but his body won’t be saying it because he hasn’t played in so long and he’s not used to it.

Stephan Carr, via GOAL

Career Overview

Dele Alli began his professional career with Milton Keynes Dons, joining their youth system in 2007 and breaking into the first team in 2012. He made 88 appearances for the club, scoring 24 goals, before joining Tottenham Hotspur in February 2015.

• Milton Keynes Dons: 62 appearances (18 goals)
• Tottenham Hotspur: 181 appearances (51 goals)
• Everton: 13 appearances (0 goals)
• Beşiktaş (loan): 13 appearances (2 goals)
• Como: 1 appearance (0 goals)
• England: 37 appearances (3 goals)

He also had a loan spell back at Milton Keynes Dons during his time with Tottenham.

Looking Ahead

While the path back to prominence will be challenging, Alli’s determination and past achievements suggest he is not ready to give up on his career. However, as Carr points out, his options are dwindling, and he may demand to prove himself through a trial to secure another contract.