Dele Alli Sent Off Nine Minutes into Comeback Debut as Como Fall to AC Milan

Dele Alli endured a disappointing return to professional football after being sent off just nine minutes into his debut for Como.

The 28-year-old midfielder, making his first appearance in over two years, received a red card following a foul on AC Milan's Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Initially shown a yellow card, the decision was upgraded to a red after a VAR review, despite Milan defender Kyle Walker pleading with the referee to maintain the initial yellow.

The incident occurred during Como’s Serie A clash against AC Milan at San Siro, where Alli was introduced as a substitute in the 81st minute. Unfortunately for Alli and his teammates, Milan secured a 2-1 comeback victory. Como initially took the lead in the 33rd minute through Lucas Da Cunha, but Milan responded in the second half with goals from Christian Pulisic in the 53rd minute and Tijjani Reijnders in the 75th minute to claim all three points.

Alli’s red card marked a bitter setback as he sought to revive his career after a lengthy absence from competitive football. His previous professional appearance was on February 26, 2023, during a loan spell with Turkish side Besiktas. Following his departure from Everton in June 2024, Alli faced personal challenges, including injuries and mental health struggles, before joining Como under the guidance of head coach Cesc Fàbregas on an 18-month contract.