‘It’s scary how he’s fallen’ – Carr issues stark warning to English-Nigerian midfielder Dele Alli

Dele Alli has been urged to confront the realities of his career struggles after former Tottenham defender Stephen Carr delivered a stark assessment of the midfielder’s situation, saying, ‘It’s scary how he’s fallen’.

Carr’s remarks come as Alli continues searching for a new club following a difficult spell that has raised concerns about his long-term prospects.

The England international, who has Nigerian heritage, has been without a team since departing Serie A side Como in September.

His contract was terminated after a single appearance, ending an 18-month deal signed following his release from Everton in June 2024.

Despite regular training updates posted on social media, Alli has been unable to secure a new opportunity and faces mounting uncertainty at 29.

Carr, speaking to GOAL in partnership with Casino.org, said Alli’s situation reflects the challenge of rebuilding a career after extended periods without consistent football.

He noted that the midfielder’s limited playing time in recent seasons has hindered his rhythm and physical readiness.

Carr highlighted that returning to elite tempo is difficult when a player has gone so long without competing regularly.

“It’s scary how he’s fallen. He’s only 29, just gone past being in his peak, but the amount of football he has played in the last few years is very low.

“It’s very hard. It’s no different to when you get injured, you do all the training and getting back fit takes time. He’s missed a lot of football. The way he sounds, it seems he still has the hunger. But his chances are getting very slim now.

“He’s had a few opportunities, it didn’t work out at Como. It’s very difficult to get back up to that pace, that standard, because the body gets used to that level and when you aren’t playing it, it’s very hard to catch up again. I think that’s where he’s at. I don’t know the ins and outs with him. He will pick up injuries. His body isn’t used to playing at the highest level now. Very difficult time. His body might be completely gone.

“Whether somebody else gives him an opportunity… He is a top player, has played for England, but that’s the past now. It’s about now, and he hasn’t been playing, hasn’t been performing. It is last chance saloon for him. Whether he gets another very good opportunity, or whether his desire is there…”

Reports indicate that Alli has opened discussions with several EFL clubs, including Wrexham and Birmingham, as he reassesses his next step and attempts to revive a career that has stalled dramatically.