Dele Alli Sees Red 10 Minutes Into Comeback After Two-Year Absence; Walker Pleads Mercy

Dele Alli’s Comeback Marred by Red Card in Chactic Como Debut
[Image: Dele Alli receiving a red card during the match]

Dele Alli’s long-awaited return to football ended disastrously as he was sent off just 10 minutes into his debut for Serie A newcomers Como. The 28-year-old, who hadn’t played competitively in two years, saw his first appearance since joining the Italian club cut short after a controversial VAR decision upgraded his yellow card to a red for a foul on AC Milan’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Chaos in Milan
The incident occurred in the 81st minute of Como’s clash against AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Alli, introduced as a late substitute, lunged into a challenge on former Chelsea midfielder Loftus-Cheek, initially earning a yellow. However, after a VAR review, the referee issued a straight red, leaving Alli visibly stunned. Teammate Kyle Walker, watching from the stands, reportedly urged officials to reconsider, while Como’s coach Cesc Fabregas was also sent off moments later for protesting the decision.

[Image: Alli’s foul on Loftus-Cheek sparking VAR review]

Mixed Fortunes for Como
Despite the drama, Como had started strongly, taking the lead through Lucas Da Cunha’s 33rd-minute strike. However, AC Milan fought back with goals from Christian Pulisic and Tijjani Reijnders to secure a 2-1 win. The loss left Como 13th in Serie A, while Milan’s victory bolstered their top-four hopes.

A Turbulent Journey
Alli’s return marked a bittersweet milestone after a tumultuous period. His last competitive match was in February 2023 for Besiktas, followed by a hiatus during which he openly discussed mental health struggles, including an addiction to sleeping pills. In July 2023, he delivered an emotional interview revealing the depths of his challenges, earning widespread sympathy.

[Image: Alli training with Como ahead of his debut]

Fresh Start in Italy
Como, co-owned by Fabregas, offered Alli a lifeline in January 2024. Despite joining the squad weeks ago, Fabregas delayed his debut, stating he didn’t want to “put extra pressure” on the midfielder. Alli’s girlfriend, influencer Cindy Kimberley, watched from the stands during recent matches, anticipating his comeback.

[Image: Cindy Kimberley in the stands during the match]

Road Ahead
The red card means Alli will face a suspension, delaying his efforts to reboot his career. Yet, Fabregas’s faith in him remains unwavering. For now, Alli’s focus shifts to regaining match fitness and proving he can still compete at the highest level after years of adversity.

[Image: Fabregas reacting on the sidelines before his dismissal]

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