Romero reflects on Spurs stay as Atletico move confirmed

Cristian Romero, the Argentine centre-back, has reflected on his five-year tenure with Tottenham Hotspur as the club confirmed his transfer to Atletico Madrid for £34.2 million. The 28-year-old joined the Premier League side in 2021 and made 156 appearances, including a crucial role in their first trophy in 17 years by helping them win the 2025 Europa League final.

Romero's final game with Tottenham was against Sunderland in April, where he left the pitch in tears due to a knee injury that forced him out of the club's final six Premier League matches of the season. Despite Spurs' relegation battle, Romero chose to return to attend the final game of Belgrano, his former club, which led to criticism from fans. He ultimately made it back to Tottenham for their 1-0 victory over Everton, securing their survival and a 17th-place finish in the league, a repeat of the previous season.

In a statement on X, Romero acknowledged that he wasn't perfect during his time at Tottenham. However, he emphasized that he always gave his all, defending the shirt with pride and dedication. Romero joined the club from Atalanta and expressed his dream of leaving his mark on Tottenham's history, stating, "I knew the only way was through hard work, sacrifice, and achieving something that had seemed so difficult for so long: lifting a trophy again. And we did it."

Romero added, "I'm leaving the club, but a part of my heart will always remain here. Once I was one of you. Today, I leave as one of you forever. With all my love and respect. Thank you for everything."