Cristian Romero’s Absence Sparks Criticism Ahead of Tottenham’s Relegation Decider

Cristian Romero will not be present to watch Tottenham’s crucial Premier League relegation match against Everton.

Romero’s departure for Argentina has drawn significant criticism, especially as Tottenham Hotspur grapples with the daunting possibility of losing their top-flight status for the first time in 49 years.

Spurs face Everton at home on the final day of the season, needing just a point to secure their Premier League position. They missed a golden opportunity to confirm their safety earlier this week when they faced Chelsea, who continued their dominance by winning the match 2-1.

Ahead of this pivotal game in Tottenham’s history, reputable South American journalist Tim Vickery disclosed that Cristian Romero will miss Sunday’s match. The central defender, ruled out for the season due to a knee injury suffered against Sunderland in April, chose to return to his homeland to watch his former club Belgrano in a title-deciding match against River Plate.

Roberto De Zerbi Comments on Cristian Romero’s Decision

Romero’s absence leading up to the critical Premier League relegation match has angered many Tottenham supporters, who perceive it as a sign of disrespect and a lack of commitment to the club. The Tottenham manager has since addressed the situation.

In a pre-match press conference on Friday, De Zerbi confirmed that Romero is currently in Argentina, continuing his rehabilitation from a knee injury at his former club Belgrano, in preparation for the upcoming World Cup. While he chose to remain somewhat ambiguous about the controversy surrounding his player, the Italian acknowledged the disappointment felt by the fanbase.

“He spoke with the medical staff. Together they decided to go to Argentina to complete the rehab with the Argentinean medical staff. We spoke last week. With me, he always showed his desire to stay with us. He is injured. I’m not stupid,” De Zerbi stated (h/t Football London).

“If I understand that there is any player who thinks for himself before the club, I can’t be the same Roberto. But with Cuti Romero I can’t say nothing because with me he has been correct from when I started until now.”