Dele Alli’s return to professional football after a two-year hiatus turned into a nightmare as he was shown a red card just 10 minutes after coming on, contributing to Como’s 2-1 defeat against AC Milan on Saturday. Como’s manager brought Alli off the bench in hopes of securing a well-deserved point at the San Siro, replacing Lucas Da Cunha.
However, the 28-year-old ended up clipping the back of Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s heel with a clumsy tackle as the ex-Chelsea midfielder slipped past him. Referee Matteo Marchetti initially handed Alli a yellow card, but after a VAR suggested an on-field review, he changed his decision to a red.
As Alli made his premature exit, his former Tottenham Hotspur teammate Kyle Walker, who transferred to Milan from Manchester City in January, implored Marchetti to show leniency.
Como took the lead through Da Cunha in the 33rd minute before the Frenchman saw a second goal after the break disallowed by VAR.
Milan then completed a comeback through Christian Pulisic and Tijani Reinders.
Fabregas was also shown a red card, which left Como without a win in three matches.
Before tonight, Alili had not played competitively since a loan spell at Besiktas from Everton in the 2022/23 season.
Alli spoke out about his issues with injury, addiction and mental health in an interview with Gary Neville in 2023.
He continued to train with Everton after being released by the club before earning a contract with Como until 2026, with the option of a further year.
When signing Alli for Como, Fabregas said: “The club believes in Dele’s potential and is committed to helping him rediscover his best form.
“His experience and leadership qualities will undoubtedly benefit the squad.”