Antonio Conte: ‘Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is a bit underrated and by far the best defender at the World Cup’ | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero lost the final of the 2026 World Cup with Argentina, suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain.

The Spurs star has been one of their most reliable players as they made another run to the final following their 2022 win.

Former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte hailed Romero, whom he managed during his tenure in North London.

Conte said (via Tuttomercatoweb), “The World Cup he’s having is a bit underrated. He’s having an amazing World Cup, the best defender overall and by far the best.

“He’s really improved a lot… I read that some Italian teams want to buy him, but I don’t know if Tottenham want to sell him (laughs).

“He’s a prickly player, and the Argentines are still on their way.

“That’s a positive thing, and he’s running out of steam. In a match, it’s always your death, my life. Unnerving the opponent is part of the game.”

Unfortunately, Romero’s tournament ended on a sour note for several reasons.

Not only did Argentina fall short in the final, but the centre-back also picked up an injury that could have significant implications for his club future.

The issue will require further assessment, and that uncertainty could complicate any potential summer transfer.

Tottenham would no doubt prefer to keep one of the Premier League’s elite defenders.

Unfortunately, Romero has spent months speaking like a player ready for a new challenge, making a sale seem increasingly logical.

However, if Spurs were planning to cash in, an injury could cool interest from potential buyers or delay negotiations altogether. It leaves all parties in an awkward position.

Romero’s desire for a fresh start has hardly been a secret, yet his fitness concerns may now force him to remain in north London, at least until he proves he is fully fit again.