English football star Dele Alli has made a shocking revelation about his past, disclosing that he was sexually abused by his mother’s friend at the tender age of six. Alli shared his deeply personal story during an appearance on Gary Neville’s show, “The Overlap,” where he also spoke about his battle with addiction to sleeping tablets and his recent stint in rehab in the United States.
The 27-year-old Everton midfielder bravely opened up about the traumatic experience, stating, “At six, I was molested.” He went on to recount his troubled childhood, revealing that he was sent to Africa in an attempt to instill discipline. However, upon his return, his life took a dark turn as he started smoking at the age of seven and became involved in drug dealing by the time he was eight. Alli revealed that he would hide drugs under his football while going about his daily routine.
The hardships continued, as Alli disclosed, “At eleven, I was hung off a bridge by a guy from the next estate.” Nevertheless, at the age of twelve, he was adopted by a remarkable and loving family who provided unwavering support. Expressing his gratitude, Alli described them as “amazing” and credited them with helping him through difficult times.
The football star also shed light on a prevalent issue within the sport, revealing, “I got addicted to sleeping tablets, and it’s probably not a problem only I have. I think it’s something that’s going around more than people realize in football.” Alli’s struggles intensified upon his return from a loan spell at Besiktas, where he discovered that he required surgery. Mentally drained, he made the courageous decision to seek help and underwent a six-week rehabilitation program in a modern facility specializing in addiction, mental health, and trauma in the United States.
Expressing his appreciation, Alli acknowledged the tremendous support he received from Everton during this challenging time. He expressed his gratitude for their honesty and understanding, noting that their unwavering support played a crucial role in his decision to embark on the path to recovery. Alli concluded by stating, “I’m happy I’ve done it,” indicating his commitment to making positive changes in his life and embracing a healthier future.
The candid and powerful interview has shed light on the harrowing experiences and personal struggles of one of England’s prominent football stars, sparking conversations about mental health, addiction, and the need for support within the sports industry.
