Dele Targets World Cup Comeback: Ambitions and Challenges Ahead

Synopsis

The professional footballer, currently serving as a midfielder for Everton, expresses optimism about his future in the sport. At 28 years of age, he is resolute in his goal to represent England in the 2026 World Cup, despite not having played since early 2023 due to injuries affecting his hip and groin. His ambition is fuelled by daily reminders set on his phone, reinforcing his determination for an international football comeback.

His contract with Everton, the club he joined in early 2022, extends to the season’s conclusion. His intention is to resume full training before the campaign’s end. His last match was while on loan at Besiktas, where an injury curtailed his tenure.

Personal Challenges:

• A six-week rehabilitation for sleeping pill dependency and psychological well-being.
• Overcoming childhood trauma inclusive of sexual abuse.

He openly discusses how the rehabilitation has positively impacted him and his aspirations to aid others facing similar hardships, taking pride in the supportive reactions from his disclosures.

Professional Career:

• Participation in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals with England.
• The most recent of his 37 international appearances was in 2019.

The past year has seen challenges, with a groin injury further delaying his return to football. Despite the setbacks, he views the situation as a formative experience that contributes to his growth and fortitude, anticipating utilising these insights when he returns to competition.

The athlete acknowledges the difficulty of the recovery journey, emboldened by the belief that a return to peak performance is on the horizon. The unwavering focus and tenacity demonstrate his willingness to persevere through prolonged periods of rehabilitation and personal development.