The Rise and Fall of Dele Alli: A Career Journey, a Tearful Interview, and a New Chapter Full of Questions

Muhe - Monday, 25 August 2025 | 03:00 PM (WIB)

The Rise and Fall of Dele Alli: A Career Journey, a Tearful Interview, and a New Chapter Full of Questions

In recent years, there has been no story more heartbreaking and inspiring in English football than that of Dele Alli. From a midfielder tipped as a future star for England, to now being at a crossroads in his career, Dele's journey is a stark illustration of the vulnerability of an athlete in the spotlight, and the importance of mental health above all else.

A Falling Star from the Sky: From Tottenham to the Fall

At his peak with Tottenham Hotspur, Dele Alli was one of the most explosive young players in the Premier League. With a keen eye for goal, creativity in midfield, and intelligent movement off the ball, he was a nightmare for any opposing defense. Alongside Harry Kane, he formed a lethal duo that helped Spurs compete at the top of the table and reach the Champions League final. His acrobatic goals, stunning assists, and signature smile captivated fans.However, his performance began to decline drastically since the end of the Mauricio Pochettino era. His move to Everton in 2022 was expected to herald a fresh start, but the opposite turned out to be true. Dele made just 13 appearances for Everton and failed to show any glimpse of his former form. He was then loaned to Beşiktaş in Turkey, but his loan spell ended prematurely after he suffered a serious thigh injury. This injury was a devastating blow that sidelined him for over a year.

An Honest Confession That Rocked the Football World

A turning point in Dele Alli's public narrative came in mid-2023. In a deeply emotional interview with Gary Neville, he openly shared his dark past. Dele revealed his childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and struggles with addiction, all of which affected his mental health.The interview was an eye-opener for many. It wasn't just about his performance on the pitch, but about a man struggling with deep wounds. He admitted he had hidden behind a fake smile and that football was his escape. This honest confession received widespread praise and support, not only from fellow footballers but also from fans and mental health experts. It was a significant moment, demonstrating that behind the uniforms and fame, athletes are also ordinary people with complex issues.

Revival in Italy and Returning to Basics

After his contract with Everton expired, Dele Alli was without a club. Although many advised him to retire to focus on his mental recovery, he showed a strong determination to return to playing. In January 2025, he made the surprising decision to join Serie A club Como 1907, owned by an Indonesian businessman and coached by football legend Cesc Fàbregas.Many hoped this move would herald a happy new chapter for Dele. However, fate had other plans. He only featured for 10 minutes in a single competitive match before being struck down by another injury. To top it off, last weekend, he was reportedly dropped from Como's first-team squad and is now considering early retirement from the game he once loved. This situation highlights the difficult path he has had to travel, with physical injuries and mental challenges continuing to hinder his progress.The latest news about Dele Alli is a poignant reminder of how quickly fate can change. From a bright prospect to a struggling man, his story has inspired millions to care more about mental health. Whatever his future decision, whether a return to the pitch or retirement, the most important thing is that he finds peace and happiness. His struggle and honesty have left a legacy far more valuable than any goals or titles.