Cesc Fabregas has delivered a harsh critique on Dele Alli’s first awful performance for Serie A team Como 1907 against AC Milan. The English media stated that he came off the bench at the San Siro, making his first professional appearance since February 2023. But while following his opponent, he caught Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s achilles with his studs, ending his brief stay.
In a heartbreaking moment for the former Tottenham player, Alli’s former international colleague Kyle Walker was seen pleading with the referee not to dismiss him upon his return. His management has now talked about the incident and openly shared his thoughts about the 28-year-old.
Fabregas Says Alli ‘Must Improve’ After Sending Off
The Spaniard criticised the midfielder for leaving his team in a difficult situation
Fabregas blasted Alli for his “negative” impact off the bench after the team’s loss to the Rossoneri, according to GOAL, saying that he put his teammates in a precarious situation as they attempted to equalise in Milan.
“Milan is a good squad with players of the highest calibre. [Dele] is a goal-scoring talent, but he needs to get much better right now. This is a big mistake for someone with his level of expertise. The bad thing about the night was that he left the team in trouble.
Fabregas even implied that Alli wasn’t originally supposed to enter the game because Sergi Roberto, a former Barcelona player, was supposed to do so before the home team took the lead. Fabregas felt it wasn’t worth the risk and brought on the Englishman since he offered more of a goal threat, especially since Roberto was also attempting to increase his level of fitness.
But after considering the ruling and the red card, the Como manager asserted that Alli, who had only been with the team for a few weeks, didn’t even merit the chance to play.
“It was at that moment when Milan went 2-1 up and Sergi Roberto was meant to come on, but I’d prefer to give him another two weeks to train so he can be ready to start against Empoli,” said the Spaniard.
“He [Alli], perhaps didn’t deserve this opportunity because he has only been working with us for two weeks.”
Alli’s Abysmal Como Debut By Numbers
Things couldn’t have gotten much worse for the midfielder
Alli will want to forget his ten-minute cameo as quickly as can, but it is undoubtedly something he can do better. He only made four touches after entering the game in the 81st minute, but he was able to finish all three of his passes.
The Englishman, who was brought in for his attacking threat, was sent for an early bath after making one effort at a tackle on Loftus-Cheek, who was a member of the 2018 World Cup squad, and failing to muster an attempt on goal or win his only ground duel the night before.
Alli has stated on multiple occasions that he wants to win over Thomas Tuchel, the next England manager, and that he thinks he is talented enough to rejoin the national team in time for the 2026 World Cup. He even has that as a daily reminder on his phone. The midfield player, though, seems to have a lot more work to do before the Three Lions can expect an emotional comeback.
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