Hoddle Criticizes Romero's Absence Before Key Everton Match

Tottenham's captain Cristian Romero missed a vital match to train in Argentina, drawing criticism from Glenn Hoddle.
By Newsroom | Football, UK |

Tottenham's club captain, Cristian Romero, faces sharp criticism for his decision to travel to Argentina for fitness recuperation instead of being present for the club's crucial match against Everton. The game, described as a potential 'relegation decider', marks a critical juncture for the team.

Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle launches withering attack on club captain Cristian Romero as defender jets back to Argentina to get fit in time for World Cup - and misses Spurs' relegation decider - 1

HODDLE'S WITHERING ASSESSMENT

"He's captain of the football club. Ha. He's just shown his true colours."

This sentiment, echoed across multiple reports, frames the core of the controversy. Football legend Glenn Hoddle has not minced words, launching a pointed attack on Romero. The captain's choice to prioritize his personal fitness in Argentina, aligning with his World Cup preparations, over supporting his teammates in a pivotal fixture, has been decried as a fundamental breach of leadership. Hoddle suggests this action reveals Romero's "true colours" and questions his suitability for the captaincy, stating, "It sums his selfishness up. He can't be a captain and act like that."

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Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle launches withering attack on club captain Cristian Romero as defender jets back to Argentina to get fit in time for World Cup - and misses Spurs' relegation decider - 2

THE IMPLICATIONS OF ABSENCE

The timing of Romero's departure is particularly galling for fans and critics alike. He will miss a match with profound implications for Tottenham's Premier League status next season. While reports suggest Romero is focusing on getting fit, his visible presence at his boyhood club, Belgrano, while Tottenham confronts its potential demotion, has drawn further ire. Fans expressed their dismay, believing he "should still be there… to support his teammates," regardless of his injury status. The club has reportedly been contacted regarding Romero's availability for Sunday's fixture.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

This incident unfolds against the backdrop of a high-stakes period for Tottenham, with the club fighting to avoid relegation. Cristian Romero, as club captain, is expected to lead by example, especially during periods of intense pressure. Glenn Hoddle, a revered figure in Tottenham's history, holds strong views on the responsibilities associated with leadership and team commitment. The reports indicate Romero's absence is tied to his recovery regimen, aiming for peak condition for the upcoming World Cup.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Glenn Hoddle criticize Cristian Romero?
Glenn Hoddle criticized Cristian Romero because the club captain missed a very important match against Everton. Romero chose to train in Argentina instead of being with his team for the game.
Q: What was the important match Romero missed?
Cristian Romero missed the match against Everton on Sunday, May 23, 2026. This game was seen as very important for Tottenham's chances of staying in the Premier League.
Q: Where was Cristian Romero when Tottenham played Everton?
Cristian Romero was in Argentina. He was there to train and get fit, possibly for the upcoming World Cup.
Q: What did Hoddle say about Romero's actions?
Hoddle said that Romero showed his 'true colours' and questioned his selfishness as a captain. He felt Romero should have been there to support his teammates, even if injured.