‘I play those who train well’ – Cesc Fabregas proves Alex Iwobi’s point over ex-teammate Dele Alli

Cesc Fàbregas has shut the door on reputations, warning Dele Alli that only hard work in training will get him back on the pitch.

Cesc Fàbregas is showing no signs of sentiment at Como, sending a clear message to Dele Alli and the rest of his squad.

After a rollercoaster few years for Alli, his attempt at revival in Italy’s top flight has hit yet another obstacle.

Cole Palmer has blasted social media as the England internal finally ended goal drought with penalty strike against Liverpool.

The English midfielder finds himself struggling to meet standards set by a manager who is building a side based on effort, not former reputations.

Speaking before their 1-0 victory away at Parma, Fàbregas reiterated that “only those who train well” will be rewarded with game time as Alli played no part in Saturday’s victory in Serie A.

‘I play those who train well and earn a spot during the week,’ Fabregas told reporters as per Daily Mail.

‘Dele Alli needs to keep working. He had his chance in Milan, but was sent off and then got injured.

Fabregas outburst at Dele Alli following embarrassing Como debut

Alli’s debut for Como in March, his first competitive appearance in over two years, was nothing short of disastrous. 

Having appeared as a second half substitute against AC Milan, Alli lasted just 10 minutes before being sent off in a moment of reckless decision-making. 

Como lost the match 2-1, their only defeat in seven games, and Fabregas made his disappointment public.

“He perhaps didn’t deserve this opportunity,” said the Spaniard to DAZN, alluding to Alli’s limited time in training prior to the match.

 “It was a clear red card… a grave mistake from someone of his experience.”

Since then, Alli has been kept on the fringes as other squad members, including Anastasios Douvikas, have capitalised on their opportunities in training. Fabregas, who has quietly guided Como into mid-table stability, is showing no favouritism.

Iwobi’s past insight echoes in Dele Alli’s new team

Interestingly, Fabregas’ words appear to validate former teammate Alex Iwobi’s candid remarks about Alli. 

Speaking on the Filthy Fellas podcast, the Super Eagles star described Alli as someone who “isn’t a training player” and revealed how his attitude in sessions often made it hard for managers to trust him.

“He’s a joke in training,” Iwobi said. 

“Not because he doesn’t care — he’s just slow with it. Dele needs a match to turn up.”

Now 29, Alli is a far cry from the midfield star who shone at Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup. 

With just 18 appearances over the past three seasons and a fading international dream for 2026, time is not on his side.

Fabregas has given him a lifeline at Como, but whether the former PFA young player of the year takes it seriously remains to be seen.