Yes, Dele Alli is returning to N17 (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium) this weekend as a special guest for the North London Derby against Arsenal!
Tottenham Hotspur officially announced today (February 20, 2026) that the former Spurs star will be back at the stadium on Sunday for the Premier League clash, which kicks off at 4:30 pm UK time. He’s not making a playing comeback—he’s currently a free agent after his time at clubs like Everton and Como—but he’ll appear as an honoured guest.
Fans will get the chance to serenade him and hear him reminisce about his magical moments at Spurs during a half-time chat with pitch-side presenter Paul Coyte.
Dele remains a huge fan favourite from his peak years under Mauricio Pochettino, where he was a key part of Tottenham’s exciting teams. This appearance comes at a great time ahead of the big rivalry match, and it’s expected to create an emotional, nostalgic atmosphere.
The announcement has Spurs supporters buzzing on social media, with posts highlighting the love for the “modern-era icon” and excitement for the reception he’ll receive.
Dele Alli scored 67 goals in total for Tottenham Hotspur across all competitions during his time at the club (from 2015 to 2022), with 51 of those coming in the Premier League. He was a key part of Spurs’ exciting era under Mauricio Pochettino, known for his intelligent runs, clinical finishing, and moments of individual brilliance.
Here are some of his most iconic and key goals that fans still talk about—the ones that defined his peak and etched him into Tottenham folklore
vs Crystal Palace (January 2016, Premier League)
Widely regarded as his greatest goal and one of the best individual strikes in Premier League history. Dele received the ball on the edge of the box, flicked it over the defender with outrageous skill, and volleyed it home with composure.
Commentators called it a “glorious” piece of magic from the 19-year-old sensation straight out of League One. It symbolised his immediate impact at Spurs and remains a fan favourite.
vs Chelsea (January 2017, Premier League)
Dele scored twice (including a header) in Tottenham’s 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge, helping end Chelsea’s long home winning streak.
His clinical finishing and movement were on full display in a massive statement victory during Spurs’ title-challenging season.
vs Real Madrid (November 2017, Champions League)
A stunning volley in Tottenham’s famous 3-1 win at Wembley against the European giants. Dele’s acrobatic finish helped secure a huge result in Spurs’ debut Champions League campaign at the new venue.
First goal for Tottenham (August 2015, Premier League vs Liverpool)
His debut strike came in a 0-0 draw turned memorable by his cool finish, marking the start of his Spurs journey after his big-money move from MK Dons.
Other standout moments include screamers against teams like Manchester United, Arsenal (in North London derbies), and various cup ties, plus his knack for ghosting into the box for tap-ins or volleys during the 2016-17 season when he hit 18 Premier League goals.
