Cristian Romero has enjoyed a remarkable international career with Argentina, winning both the Copa America and the World Cup. He has already proven himself on the biggest stage for his country, and now another chapter begins at club level as he has been given the captain’s armband at Tottenham Hotspur.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has strongly defended Cristian Romero, saying the defender is fully committed to the club and ready to grow into a strong leader after being made captain.
Romero was given the armband after Son Heung-min left for Los Angeles FC earlier this summer. Some fans and critics had raised questions about the Argentine centre-back’s loyalty to Spurs, pointing out that he seemed to care more about playing for his national team. He was even linked with a move to Atlético Madrid, which created fresh doubts about his long-term future.
But Frank, who took charge of Tottenham ahead of the new season, has no doubt about Romero’s dedication. He explained that in the weeks he has worked closely with him, he has seen a defender who is training harder than ever and showing great focus. According to the manager, members of the coaching staff have also said they had never seen Romero train at such a high level before.
“I see a very committed player,” Frank said. “He is in a very good place. He wants to lead, he wants to push the team, and I believe he can be an excellent captain.”
Romero’s current contract with Spurs runs for two more years, and there has been speculation that making him captain could be a way of convincing him to extend his deal. Frank admitted that he would like Romero to stay longer but explained that the decision to name him captain was not connected to contract talks. Instead, it was based purely on his ability to inspire the team both now and in the future.
Although Romero has sometimes struggled with consistency, Frank is convinced that the defender has the quality and character to succeed. The manager said his aggression and fighting spirit make him one of the best defenders in the league, and his style of play can lift the energy of the whole team. He also explained that being captain at the age of 27 means Romero still has time to learn and improve as a leader.
“I see a very big player,” Frank said. “The respect he has from his teammates is huge. He sets standards off the pitch as well. When I was 27, I thought I could do everything, but I later realised leadership takes time to grow. He will get better and better. I will do my best to guide him.”
Tottenham are preparing for a busy schedule. On Wednesday night, they played Paris Saint-Germain in the Super Cup final. Spurs took a two-goal lead but were beaten on penalties. Now, they quickly turn their attention to the Premier League as they face Burnley in Frank’s first league match in charge.
The manager said he believes Dutch defender Micky van de Ven, who had fitness problems last season, is ready to handle playing two matches in a week. Frank also confirmed that the club are still active in the transfer market. Talks have been held with Manchester City about winger Savinho, while Tottenham are expected to make a bid for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. Eze’s release clause of £68 million expired on Friday, and while Spurs are preparing an approach, rivals Arsenal have yet to make a clear move for him.
Romero, speaking to the club’s official media, said it was a huge honour to be given the captaincy. He explained that being the first-team captain of Tottenham was both exciting and a big responsibility.
“I am very happy,” Romero said. “This is my fifth season at the club and to be the first team captain is amazing for me. I do not like to speak too much. I prefer to show my commitment by training hard and giving 100 percent every match. That is what I want to do for this beautiful club.”