Dele is not Done
28-year-old midfielder Dele Alli recently completed a move to Serie A side, Como. Como has a number of names on their roster that may ring a familiar bell. The likes of Pepe Reina, Sergi Roberto, and Andrea Belotti have all made their way to the Italian side managed by Spanish legend and World Cup winner, Cesc Fàbregas.
Dele Alli, a two-time Professional Footballers’ Association Young Player of the Year award winner, was once heralded as a generational talent - he sits alongside football greats Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Robbie Fowler, and current Manchester City star, Phil Foden, as the only players to win this award twice. This massive feat was no accident. Dele’s run at the top of football was an all-timer. His ability as a versatile midfielder has amounted to nearly 100 goals as a professional. This is an accomplishment that can never be written off, no matter how hard doubters and non-believers may try,
Dele Alli, a subject of on and off the pitch criticism, most of which has been extremely harsh and uncalled for, now has an opportunity to continue writing his story and growing his legacy. The chatter from so called ‘fans’ has typically been spewed through direct attacks to Dele’s character as a result of performance, or lack thereof - without fully considering the mental impact and physical toll playing at a high level takes on the body and spirit. Like all of us, Dele is human - with emotions. Being a top footballer in your peak, on the world stage, is not a walk in the park. It is demanding. It is draining. It is difficult.
Despite the injuries, the name-calling, the time away from what he was once arguably one of the best in the world at, Dele Alli has remained true to himself and walked his own path. Dele’s journey may not be linear, but it is special. Not having the pleasure of watching Dele perform week in and week out, has given us the opportunity to view him through a different lens. Those of us who know, know. He is one of the biggest names and personalities this game has ever seen. Seeing Dele back on the pitch in a Como jersey will undoubtedly trigger fond memories of watching him from the start.
Time to lace up the boots, Dele. You’re not done!