That Dele Alli interview was powerful and inspiring. I have so much respect for Dele coming out and saying all that. It takes a lot of guts and courage to open up like that to the world. I always had the impression that something was seriously wrong behind the scenes but to find that out that he had been molested at 6, smoking at 7 and dealing with drugs at 8 is just horrible. Most people seem to forget he was adopted at 11, you would have wondered back then why that happened so late. And when he became a footballer, he still a kid aged 16-17, dealing with all the pressure as a pro player. When there is a pressure and problem, he just suppressed them because he wanted to be grateful cause at least he got to do what he loves doing. When the pressure started building up, thats when the addiction came in just to cope. Everyone has unique background but we were all too quick to judge him.
He doesn’t need to do anything but find peace and tranquility within himself. He already marveled and dazzled us enough with his talent. He’s a man from humble beginnings that overcame the most harsh obstacles imaginable and went on to live every boy’s dream. I genuinely hope we see a resurgent Dele Ali. For above all else, himself.... I hope he keeps working on his mental health. We tend to forget this but footballers are human beings as well.
People don't realise how important that interview was and is for thousands of men and women out there keeping silent. Research shows that one in 10 children are the victim of sexual abuse and assault before their 18th birthday and are more likely to kill themselves as adults. I hope this interview will give strength to people going through similar mental health problems. The media must begin to report openly about this common occurrence.
Hats off to Gary Neville being proactive and wanting to speak to this young lad and I hope he does one of these interviews with Phil Jones as well. Clearly something has happened.