Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020.
Tottenham’s fight to avoid relegation took another dramatic turn after manager Roberto De Zerbi defended captain Cristian Romero for travelling to Argentina instead of attending Spurs’ decisive Premier League clash against Everton. The decision came just days before Tottenham’s final match of the season in London, with the club still at risk of dropping to the Championship for the first time since 1977. Romero, sidelined with an MCL injury, chose to continue rehabilitation in Argentina while attending Belgrano’s playoff final against River Plate, a move that quickly triggered criticism from fans and former players.
De Zerbi stands by Tottenham skipper
Pressure around Tottenham has continued to build after a difficult campaign that left the club sitting only two points above West Ham heading into the final round. Supporters arriving at the stadium knew the stakes were simple. A win against Everton would secure survival, while even a draw could be enough depending on West Ham’s result.
Despite the tension around the club, De Zerbi backed Romero’s decision and insisted the medical staff approved the trip.
“He spoke with the medical staff, together they decided to go to Argentina to complete the rehab with the Argentinian medical staff,” the head coach said to The Guardian.
“We spoke last week and he always wanted to stay with us. The injury is already an injury, and we have to accept it.”
The absence of the club captain became one of the biggest talking points before kickoff. Cameras captured anxious Spurs supporters outside the ground discussing the defender’s choice, while social media criticism intensified throughout the weekend.
Romero criticised over timing of trip
Former Tottenham legend Glen Hoddle questioned the defender’s commitment, claiming the situation reflected poorly on the club leadership group.
De Zerbi, however, rejected suggestions Romero had abandoned the team during its most important match of the season.
“I’m not stupid, if I understand there is any player, or some 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, in my time, he has been correct, in the beginning, until now.”
The Tottenham boss also stressed Romero would have little influence on the result given he was already unavailable through injury.
“The decision was with the medical staff and I think he can change nothing if Romero is in the stadium or not.
“And finally, I have no time to lose energy, to lose thinking about other things. We have to be focused just on the game.”
Inside the stadium, the atmosphere reflected the pressure of the moment. Every misplaced pass from Spurs drew nervous reactions from supporters, while Everton fans attempted to increase the tension with chants reminding Tottenham of the relegation danger hanging over the club.
Tottenham fighting to avoid historic drop
Tottenham have not been relegated from England’s top division since 1977, making the current situation one of the most uncomfortable periods in the club’s modern history. Injuries, defensive mistakes and inconsistent performances throughout the season pushed Spurs into a battle few expected at the beginning of the campaign.
De Zerbi also pointed to experienced defender Ben Davies as an example of leadership within the squad.
“Sometimes not all leaders are the same. Ben Davies spoke with me, and he asked to stay today to work with us, and tomorrow we sleep in the hotel, and he wants to stay with the team, the teammates.”
“But Romero is preparing for the World Cup with his injury, and for me nothing changed.”
The coach’s comments hinted at the different priorities players face late in the season, especially with international tournaments approaching.
For Tottenham supporters, though, survival remained the only focus. Fans stayed glued to updates from the West Ham match while every attack against Everton produced loud reactions around the ground.
Only a Spurs defeat combined with a West Ham victory would send Tottenham into the Championship.
For more football coverage and Premier League analysis, visit Smart Tips Football Hub.
You can also read the official Premier League updates at Premier League Official Website.
