Cristian Romero: Roberto De Zerbi says ‘not all leaders are the same’ and Spurs captain will miss relegation decider vs Everton | Football news
Roberto De Zerbi says “not all leaders are the same” after being asked about captain Cristian Romero’s decision to fly to Argentina instead of attending Tottenham’s Premier League game with Everton.
Spurs are 17th in the table, two points ahead of West Ham on goal difference, ahead of hosting the Toffees on Sunday, live Sky Sports.
Reports have emerged that Romero, who was absent during Chelsea’s defeat at Stamford Bridge, would not be there after flying to Argentina to watch boyhood club Belgrano take on River Plate in Sunday’s title decider.
When asked about the situation that will face Everton, De Zerbi said: “Sometimes the leaders are not the same, Ben Davies spoke to me and asked to stay today to work with us.
“He wanted to stay with the team and his teammates. Romero is preparing for the World Cup due to injury. Nothing has changed for me.
“Then we have to think, everything is for a good future for Tottenham.”
Romero has not played since April due to a knee injury that has led to him not playing this season.
De Zerbi was then asked how the decision to allow Romero to leave the country was reached: “He spoke with the medical staff. Together, they decided to go to Argentina to complete rehabilitation with the Argentine medical staff.
“We spoke last week. He also showed that he wants to stay with us. I want to be clear, I am not an idiot. If I understand that there is a player who thinks about himself before the team, I will not be like Roberto.
“For Romero, I can’t say anything. Me, in my time, he was right from the beginning until now.”
De Zerbi understands Romero’s criticism but is uncertain about the future
Romero has received widespread criticism from fans for the decision to leave the country when the club is in such a dangerous situation.
“I understand 100 percent,” De Zerbi continued when fans’ frustrations were raised in a press conference.
“I don’t know. Cristian is a top player and for me, he was a top guy. When I say top guy it’s because I’m sure of what I see.”
The Argentine defender has been linked with a move away from the club since his arrival in 2022 but signed a new contract, making his future until 2029, last August following the Europa League victory against Manchester United in Bilbao.
Did Romero play his last game for Spurs?
Recent difficulties in the relationship between the captain and the fans have led to growing doubts about his future as we approach the summer transfer window.
“For tomorrow, I don’t know,” said De Zerbi about whether Romero has played his last game for the club. “It’s an important game for the fans and our team. I don’t want answers about Romero.
“I’m focused on Djed Spence, Kolo Muani and Richarlison [and more]. We have to play with blood, character and spirit because it is the final.
“They played a very good final last season and won the cup. Maybe there will be a bonus after tomorrow. There is no more trophy or bonus. The future and the history of the team, the pride of the players and the dignity of all of us are important.
“With that, I can’t lose my energy thinking about next season. I’ll say it again, I’m not stupid.”
