Roberto De Zerbi says “not all leaders are the same” after being quizzed on captain Cristian Romero’s decision to fly to Argentina instead of attending Tottenham’s game against Everton with their Premier League survival at stake.
Spurs are 17th in the table, two points ahead of West Ham with a superior goal difference, ahead of hosting the Toffees on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.
Reports have since emerged that Romero, who was not present for the defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, would not be in attendance after flying to Argentina to watch boyhood club Belgrano face River Plate in a title decider on Sunday instead.
When asked about the situation ahead of facing Everton, De Zerbi said: “Sometimes, not all the leaders are the same. Ben Davies spoke with me and asked to stay today to work with us. Tomorrow, we sleep in the hotel.
“He wanted to stay with the team and team-mates. Romero is preparing for the World Cup with an injury. For me, nothing changed.
“Then we have to think, everything is for the best future of Tottenham.”
Romero has been sidelined since April with a knee injury and has been ruled out for the season.
De Zerbi was then quizzed on how the decision to allow Romero to leave the country was reached: “He spoke with the medical staff. Together, they decided to go to Argentina to complete rehab with Argentinian medical staff.
“We spoke last week. With me, he has shown he wants to stay with us. I want to be clear, I am not stupid. If I understand that there is a player who thinks for himself before the club, I cannot be the same Roberto.
“With Romero, I can’t say nothing. With me, in my time, he has been correct at the beginning until now.”
Romero’s season was ended by injury last month
De Zerbi understands Romero criticism but unsure on future
Romero has received widespread criticism from the fanbase for the decision to leave the country while the club is in such a perilous position.
“100 per cent I understand,” De Zerbi continued when frustration from supporters was raised in the press conference.
“I don’t know. Cristian is a top player and with me, he was a top guy. When I say top guy, it is because I am certain what I am seeing.”
The Argentina defender has regularly been linked with a move away from the club since his arrival in 2022 but signed a new contract, committing his future until 2029, last August following the Europa League victory against Manchester United in Bilbao.
Has Romero played his last game for Spurs?
The latest strain on the relationship between the captain and fanbase has led to doubts emerging regarding his future as we approach the summer transfer window.
“For the future, I don’t know,” De Zerbi said on whether Romero had played his final game for the club “It is a crucial game for a fans and our club. I don’t want answers on Romero.
“My focus is on Djed Spence, Kolo Muani and Richarlison [and more]. We have to play with blood, character and spirit because it is a final.
“They played a great final last season and they won a trophy. Maybe there was a bonus. After tomorrow, there is not a trophy or a bonus, there is something more important, the future and the history of the club. The pride of the players and the dignity of everyone of us.
“For that, I can’t lose energy thinking of the next season. I will repeat, I am not stupid.”
