Tottenham Hotspur supporters may one day witness the return of Dele Alli to North London, though possibly in a different role than before.
The former Spurs midfielder has experienced a sharp decline in his career over the past few years, but he recently made a significant step toward a comeback after being included in a matchday squad for Como in Serie A.
This marked his first appearance on a team sheet in over two years, with his last competitive outing dating back to February 2023 during his loan spell at Beşiktaş.
Since joining Como under the guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas, Alli has been steadily working his way back into the squad. Although he remained an unused substitute in a recent 2-1 loss to AS Roma, his selection for the squad is an encouraging sign.
Former Leicester City manager Martin Allen has suggested that while a return to Tottenham as a player is unlikely, Alli could still have a future at the club in a different capacity.
Allen believes that given his wealth of experience, both as a top-level footballer and someone who has faced significant personal and professional setbacks, Alli could be an invaluable mentor for young players.
He speculated that the former England international could take up a coaching or advisory role within Spurs’ academy, helping to guide rising talents on and off the pitch.
Speaking to Tottenham News, Allen remarked:
“Maybe that [a return to Tottenham] could be possible.
“Every football supporter will be wishing him well at Como. He’s had a big dip, which can happen. The fact that he’s bouncing back and getting back into the game, let’s hope he can do it.
“Maybe one day he can get back up to the level we know.
“A role at Tottenham maybe. I’m not sure if he’s a coach or a possible manager, an academy coach to give knowledge to young people.
“He may look at educating young players around depression and avoiding certain situations.“
Alli was once one of the brightest young talents in English football. After joining Spurs in 2015, he quickly became a key figure in the squad, winning consecutive PFA Young Player of the Year awards in 2016 and 2017. During his time with Tottenham, he made staggering 269 appearances, while impressively scoring 67 goals and providing 55 assists. (Transfermarkt)
Whether Alli returns to Spurs remains uncertain, but if he does, it would be a heartwarming reunion with the club where he made his name.