Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has expressed his admiration for Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero ahead of their Champions League last-16 second leg in London. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Simeone described himself as a “big fan” of the Argentine defender.
Romero was heavily linked with a move to Atletico last summer, but the transfer did not materialise. He subsequently signed a new contract with Tottenham until 2029. Despite a difficult season for Spurs and mixed form from Romero, including two red cards and six goals, speculation about his future persists.
“I speak from a point of view as an Argentina fan. I admire his personality, his character, his defensive work and his football ability on the ball,” Simeone said. “As a fan of Argentina, I have seen him play more games for the national team than I have for Spurs, but I'm a big fan of him, for sure.”
Romero’s expected availability is a boost for Tottenham, who are set to be without at least 11 players for the second leg. Atletico hold a 5-2 lead from the first leg, but Simeone struck a cautious tone ahead of the match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
“We want to take the game in the direction we want to tomorrow. We will have our usual intensity that we had at home, we want to start on the front foot but Tottenham will want to start on the front foot and put on a show for their fans as well,” Simeone added.
Atletico will be without first-choice goalkeeper Jan Oblak, with Juan Musso set to deputise. Simeone expressed confidence in Musso, saying, “Juan is performing well and I am happy with his work.”
