During Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-1 win against Southampton on Sunday afternoon, Cristian Romero’s action during the penalty incident summed up what it means to be a proper captain in north London.
Every Tottenham fan following our coverage lately will be well aware of the growing uncertainty around Cristian Romero’s long-term future at the club.
Reports emerged weeks ago suggesting that Romero has yet to commit to a new Spurs contract, despite the club apparently putting a very attractive deal on the table.
Since then, Atletico Madrid have made a move of their own, reaching out to Romero’s representatives to sound out a potential switch.
The 26-year-old is said to be open to the idea of leaving north London, with the lure of Champions League football next season proving tempting.
Cristian Romero hands Tottenham penalty to Mathys Tel
Regardless of the noise surrounding Romero, against Southampton on Sunday, he started once more for Tottenham—despite many expecting him to be rested ahead of the upcoming Europa League tie.
The Argentine put in a strong showing too, posing a threat from set-pieces and forcing Aaron Ramsdale into a couple of decent saves, while also keeping things ticking over with his usual range of passing.
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But one moment stood out above all. As relayed by George Sessions, late in the game, Spurs were awarded a penalty. Brennan Johnson had won it and was on a hat-trick.
But with Mathys Tel still searching for his first Premier League goal, Romero stepped up—literally—and made the decision.
He handed Tel the ball, offered Johnson a quick hug, and let the young Frenchman grab his debut league goal at home.
Cristian Romero needs to remain focused during Spurs’ crucial end-of-season run-in
With several of Spurs‘ senior players already off the pitch by then, Romero—as vice-captain—had to make a call, and most fans would probably agree it was the right one. Tel needed that confidence boost.
As for Romero, it was a moment that spoke volumes—not just about his leadership, but his mindset too. For all the noise around his future, he’s clearly still switched on and playing for the badge.
What matters now is that he keeps it that way. Tottenham need him locked in during this crucial run-in. Let the summer take care of itself.