Dele Alli’s 2024 plan for FIFA World Cup falls flat after Thomas Tuchel announces England squad

Alli joined Como in January 2025, hoping to rebuild his career, but the move did not provide the platform he needed.

He made just one senior appearance for the Italian club before he left by mutual consent, which shows how far he still has to go.

A World Cup push requires rhythm, visibility and trust from a manager. Alli cannot build any of that without regular competitive minutes.

It is not about dismissing his past quality either. He still has 37 England caps, showing how high his ceiling once was.

Thomas Tuchel’s England call shows how high the bar now is

Tuchel’s latest England squad announcement only underlines the gap Alli needs to close.

This is no longer about reputation. England have active midfield and attacking options who are playing regularly, competing at high levels and fitting into a defined tournament plan.

Alli is not there right now. Reports have him training individually at Tottenham while he waits for his next club move.

That is not a selection platform. It is the starting point for a comeback.

Alli’s World Cup ambition is still admirable, but nostalgia will not move him closer to Tuchel’s squad. His route back has to begin with a club, minutes and form.