Roberto De Zerbi has defended the star’s professionalism, dismissing claims the Tottenham defender wanted to leave early for Argentina.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has set the record straight regarding Cristian Romero, strongly defending the Argentine defender’s attitude while addressing ongoing speculation surrounding his potential summer departure.
Speaking via quotes reported by Alasdair Gold and highlighted by Last Word On Spurs on X, the Italian manager praised Romero’s conduct during the crucial run-in of the campaign while firmly shutting down reports that the World Cup winner wanted to abandon Spurs early to prepare with the national team.
De Zerbi praised Romero’s commitment and passion for the club during individual meetings when he first arrived in North London to steer Tottenham to Premier League safety:
“[Cuti] Romero with me was unbelievable. Top. In his behaviour, his respect, he suffered when he did not play the last game.”
Addressing claims that Romero sought an early return to South America to focus on international commitments, De Zerbi added:
“It is not true that he wanted to leave for Argentina to prepare for their World Cup. It’s not true.”
Mutual Respect and Player Autonomy
While De Zerbi considers Romero “one of the best centre-backs in the world,” he reiterated his stance that he will not force any player to remain at Tottenham if they desire a new challenge elsewhere.
“After the semi-final [against England] we text a message, but I never called him to convince him to stay. I respected what he told me.”
De Zerbi elaborated that his policy involves supporting players who fulfill their duties to the club, noting that while he would prefer to keep key assets like Romero, final decisions rest with the players and the club’s executive management. Amid reported transfer interest from European heavyweights such as Inter Milan, De Zerbi’s comments indicate an understanding that Romero’s future may ultimately lie outside N17 if a suitable agreement is reached.