Dele Alli Confirms Everton Departure, Citing Need for “New Page”

Dele Alli, whose last of 37 England appearances occurred in 2019, has announced his departure from Everton, stating that “it’s the right time for me to turn a new page.” The former England midfielder had been without a club since his contract at Goodison Park concluded in June, though he maintained training sessions with Everton. The 28-year-old, who previously underwent a six-week rehabilitation program last year to address childhood trauma, was present at Como’s 2-0 Serie A home triumph over Roma on Sunday. Cesc Fabregas, Como’s head coach, indicated that Dele might train with the club after Christmas. Dele conveyed his gratitude to his former club via an Instagram message, remarking that “2025 may set me on a new path with some exciting opportunities.” He further stated: “Before any of that happens, it’s very important for me to make clear how grateful I am to all the fans, staff and players at Everton FC for the support they have given me.” Following his transfer from Tottenham to Everton in January 2022, Dele registered only one Premier League start alongside 12 appearances as a substitute. His most recent competitive match took place in February 2023 during a loan spell with Turkish club Besiktas. Dele commented: “It’s been an incredibly tough journey trying to put the final pieces together to regain match fitness and I cannot thank the Everton staff enough for the hard work they have put into this process.” He continued: “Unfortunately, things haven’t worked out as we all would have hoped, and I think it’s the right time for me to turn a new page. I want to wish everyone at this amazing club the very best of luck.” Dele’s arrival at Everton coincided with Frank Lampard’s appointment as manager. Lampard was subsequently replaced by Sean Dyche in January 2023. Dyche stated on Friday: “The major point that we agreed, as a collective, was to get him back to a good place and I think he is there.” He added: “He’s had so much misfortune with injuries, you could not imagine the challenges he has had. We wish him well and that is all we can do.” Dyche concluded: “He has been nothing but an ease for me to work with. On to a new challenge but we certainly wish him well.”