Catastrophic start: Dele Alli shown a red card just 10 minutes after coming on as a substitute, while Kyle Walker appeals to the referee.

In a dramatic start to his Como career, Dele Alli was shown a red card just 10 minutes into his debut, as Cesc Fabregas’ side succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against AC Milan at the iconic San Siro.

The England international, making his first competitive appearance since his loan spell at Besiktas in February 2023, found himself in hot water after a reckless challenge on Ruben Loftus-Cheek. The incident occurred in the closing moments of the Serie A clash, leading to a swift decision from referee Matteo Marchetti.

Initially, Marchetti brandished a yellow card for Alli’s foul, but after a VAR review, he changed his mind and reached for his back pocket to issue a red card. This marked a disappointing introduction to Italian football for the former Tottenham Hotspur and Everton midfielder.

Alli had only been on the pitch for a matter of minutes, having been introduced by Fabregas in the 81st minute as Como sought to turn the tide in a match that was slipping away from them. The visitors had taken the lead through Lucas da Cunha in the 33rd minute, but AC Milan responded with a goal from Christian Pulisic shortly after the break. Tijani Reijnders then completed the comeback in the 75th minute.

In a surprising twist, Kyle Walker, Alli’s compatriot and the right-back for AC Milan, appeared to plead with Marchetti to reconsider the decision and keep the Como midfielder on the pitch. Ironically, with Como reduced to ten men, Walker’s side would have found it considerably easier to secure the win.

However, Walker’s appeals fell on deaf ears. Marchetti not only sent Alli off but also dismissed Fabregas for his protests, which could result in a touchline ban for the former Arsenal and Chelsea star.

The victory propelled Sergio Conceicao’s Rossoneri into seventh place in Serie A, leaving them seven points behind fourth-placed Juventus, who currently occupy the final UEFA Champions League qualification spot.

Looking ahead, Milan will face a tough challenge against title-chasing Napoli, with Antonio Conte’s side just a point behind league leaders Inter Milan. The stage is set for an exciting clash as the season heats up.