Dele Alli Opens Door to Barnet Training After Como Exit
After leaving Como, former England midfielder Dele Alli has begun training at Barnet’s facilities, with manager Dean Brennan offering him a chance to regain fitness and potentially re-enter professional football. Alli’s move comes amid speculation of a new club and a desire to rebuild his career af…
By Felo News Desk · Published
After a turbulent season with Como and a brief, injury‑marred stint at Everton, Dele Alli is back on the training ground – this time at the grounds of League Two leaders Barnet. The 30‑year‑old former England international has been using Barnet’s facilities to stay match‑fit while he searches for his next club, and the club’s boss, Dean Brennan, has publicly opened the doors for him to train with the squad.
Alli’s Journey From Tottenham to the Edge of Retirement
Alli burst onto the scene at Tottenham Hotspur, earning back‑to‑back PFA Young Player of the Year awards and earning 37 caps for England. His rise was halted by a combination of injuries and a dip in form, leading to a move to Everton in 2022. The midfielder’s time in the Premier League was marked by limited minutes and a lack of impact, and in 2024 he signed for Serie A side Como. Alli’s sole appearance for the Italian club ended in a red card against AC Milan, after which he left the club by mutual consent.
Since March 2025, Alli has not played competitive football. He has been training individually at Barnet to maintain fitness and sharpen his skills, a move that has attracted attention from fans and pundits alike.
Dean Brennan’s Open Invitation
Dean Brennan, the manager of Barnet, expressed his willingness to give Alli a platform to rebuild his career. “If I do a Harry Redknapp and pull him back in, like Paolo Di Canio, no issue whatsoever,” Brennan said. He emphasized that everyone deserves a second chance and that Barnet has a history of working with out‑of‑contract players. “He can use us to get fit and train with the group,” Brennan added.
Alli’s presence at Barnet’s training sessions has been documented on social media, with the midfielder posting videos of himself working out at the club’s facilities. The videos have sparked speculation that Alli may have already agreed on a move, especially after Indian Super League side Odisha FC tweeted a GIF of him, hinting at a potential signing.
Why Barnet Is a Strategic Choice
Barnet currently tops League Two, offering a competitive environment that could aid Alli’s return to form. Training alongside a squad that competes at the top of the English Football League could provide the intensity and structure necessary for the former England star to showcase his abilities to potential suitors.
Moreover, Barnet’s willingness to host a high‑profile player on a trial basis could attract media attention and increase the club’s visibility. For Alli, the opportunity to train with a team that has a clear path to promotion may serve as a stepping stone back into higher‑tier football.
What’s Next for Dele Alli?
Alli’s future remains uncertain. While he has not yet signed a contract, his training at Barnet signals a desire to return to competitive play. The club’s manager has indicated that the door is open for Alli to join the squad if he wishes to do so, but no official offer has been announced.
As the season progresses, Alli’s performance in training will be closely monitored by scouts and managers across the leagues. A successful stint at Barnet could pave the way for a return to the Premier League, the Championship, or a move abroad, depending on the interest that materializes.
In the meantime, Alli remains a player to watch, and Barnet’s bold move to accommodate him could set a precedent for clubs willing to give former stars a second chance.
Key facts
- Dele Alli is training at Barnet after leaving Como and Everton
- Dean Brennan offers Alli a platform to rebuild his career
- Alli’s past success at Tottenham and England contrasts with recent injury struggles
- Barnet’s League Two leadership provides a competitive environment for a potential comeback
- Alli’s future remains uncertain, with interest from clubs like Odisha FC
Why it matters
Alli’s return to training after a period of inactivity highlights the challenges faced by former international stars and the role lower‑tier clubs can play in career rehabilitation. It also underscores the fluid nature of football careers and the importance of resilience.
Frequently asked questions
What is Barnet’s current league status?
Barnet is leading League Two, the fourth tier of English football.
Has Dele Alli signed with Barnet?
No, he has only trained with the club and is not under contract.
What happened to Alli at Como?
He played one match, received a red card, and left the club by mutual consent.
Could Alli return to the Premier League?
It is possible if he impresses during training and attracts interest from higher‑tier clubs.
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Dele Alli next move 'revealed' as London club confirms interest”
