Mauricio Pochettino has quietly slipped into exile from English football ever since he was dismissed from his post at Tottenham Hotspur and replaced by Jose Mourinho.The Argentine established himself as a Spurs legend during his time in north London and, notwithstanding his failure to win a trophy, will be immortalised in club folklore for his broader achievements as manager. One of his most defining accomplishments and managerial characteristics was his promotion of youth and exceptional man-management skills. There were many beneficiaries of Pochettino's methods, but few more so than Dele Alli. Following his move from MK Dons as an 18-year-old, Alli rapidly established himself as one of the hottest prospects in world football as he showcased a level of raw talent and brash confidence to capture the imagination of Spurs supporters and beyond. However, the once imperious, generational talent who oozed charisma on the pitch has faded onto the periphery of Jose Mourinho's squad. It's one of the biggest talking points at Spurs right now, and now Pochettino has had his say. The Argentine turned to punditry on Monday evening as he took his seat in the Sky Sports studio for Leicester City's trip to Leeds United. In the aftermath of proceedings, Pochettino eulogised about Alli's ability to inspire the next generation of players and drew lofty comparisons with Ronaldinho and Diego Maradona. 

This is what Pochettino had to say: “Another player with similar charisma is Ronaldinho when we play in Paris Saint-Germain.

“And of course at the start with Dele Alli he was in this way. This type of charisma because people love Dele.

“The talent is complete because of the charisma, like Maradona.

“That’s what makes a really special player.” 

As a player, Pochettino played alongside Ronaldinho for two seasons during his time at PSG between 2001 and 2003. 

The comparison between Alli, Ronaldinho and Maradona is less stylistic and more visceral but it's an eye-catching one nonetheless. 

Alli and Pochettino

Pochettino's comments may appear hyperbolic given the 24-year-old's current predicament at Spurs, but it's important to remember that he was once in the elite bracket of world footballers, commanding a value of £90m at his peak.

It's disappointing to watch the demise of an England international - now valued at £46.8m - who has the ability to dazzle and enchant with spontaneous moments of flair, just as Ronaldinho and Maradona did. 

Perhaps the gushing words of Alli's former manager can help to reinvigorate his stagnant career.