Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is once again in the spotlight for his fiery temperament, this time during international duty with Argentina.
Romero’s passionate nature came to the forefront during a heated FIFA World Cup qualifier against Colombia, which Argentina lost 2-1.
According to Clarin, Romero was visibly frustrated by the result and became a focal point of post-match protests. His actions during the match earned him a yellow card, which, due to accumulating previous cautions, has resulted in a suspension for Argentina’s next qualifier against Venezuela.
Impact on Argentina and Tottenham
The suspension is a significant setback for Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who relies heavily on Romero’s defensive prowess. Romero has been a crucial part of Argentina’s defensive line and his absence could impact their World Cup qualifying campaign.
For Tottenham Hotspur, however, there may be a silver lining. With the Premier League and European fixtures mounting, Romero’s suspension from international duty could allow him to stay fresher for Spurs’ upcoming crucial matches.
His absence from the national team could be a welcome opportunity for Tottenham to ensure he is in top form for their domestic and European challenges.
Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Romero will miss the Europa League group-stage match against Qarabag, due to a suspension dating back to Spurs’ 2022 Champions League campaign.
Romero has been a key figure in Tottenham’s defence since joining the club on loan from Atalanta in 2021, and subsequently making the move permanent in 2022 with a contract running until 2027.
His leadership qualities were further acknowledged when he was named vice-captain last season.
RELATED STORY
Tottenham Hotspur return to European football this season, following their qualification for the Europa League.
Ange Postecoglou is set to undergo his first campaign of European football since becoming Tottenham Hotspur manager.
Having won a trophy at every club he has managed so far, the Spurs boss will see the Europa League as an ample opportunity to get some silverware under his belt and end Tottenham’s 16-year wait for a trophy.
The Aussie however will be without one of his key players for Tottenham’s first Europa League fixture, with Cristian Romero set to sit out with suspension.
Why is Cristian Romero banned for Tottenham’s Europa League opener?
Romero will be unavailable for selection in Tottenham’s first Europa League clash due to a red card he received two seasons ago.
The defender received a second yellow card in the second leg of Tottenham’s Champions League last-16 tie against AC Milan back in February 2023.
Drawing 0-0 on the night and ultimately exiting the competition, it was a very frustrating night for the Spurs faithful compounded by Romero’s reckless tackle on Theo Hernandez.
The Argentinian would receive a one-match ban for his troubles, but Tottenham’s failure to qualify for European football under Antonio Conte during the 22/23 season, ultimately meant Romero’s suspension has laid dormant until this campaign.
Who could replace Romero?
Romero’s suspension could present the perfect opportunity for Radu Dragusin to showcase his talents.
The rock-solid partnership of Micky van de Ven and Romero has seen the Romanian struggle for game time since arriving from Genoa back in January.
The Europa League though could hand the defender some vital minutes as he looks to stake a claim in the Tottenham first-team.
Leave a Reply