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Thomas Frank puts ‘top’ Tottenham star on a high pedestal; strengthens rearguard

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Aaryan Choksi | Last updated Oct 26, 2025 9:26 AM ET

Tottenham managed to convince Cristian Romero to stay put at N17 and sign a contract extension in the summer

Tottenham made several high-quality signings during the summer transfer window. The Lilywhites brought in the likes of Mohammed Kudus, Joao Palhinha, and Xavi Simons to build on last season’s Europa League success under Thomas Frank. However, it’s fair to say that extending Cristian Romero’s contract at N17 was by far the club’s best piece of business.

The Argentine defender was heavily linked with a move away throughout the summer, with Atletico Madrid making their interest clear from the start. Atleti boss Diego Simeone reportedly called Romero on a daily basis in an attempt to convince him to join the Spanish club. Despite the strong pursuit from the La Liga giants, the 27-year-old decided to stay put in North London and instead sign a new contract extension.

To make things even better, Thomas Frank entrusted him with the club captaincy following Heung-Min Son’s departure. And it’s safe to say that Romero has led by example this season. Under his leadership, the Lilywhites currently sit sixth in the Premier League table and remain unbeaten in Europe.

Cristian Romero is a vital part of Thomas Frank’s setup at Tottenham

It has become evident that Cristian Romero has formed a formidable partnership at the back with Micky Van de Ven for Tottenham. Both players are complementing each other’s games perfectly and all thanks to them, the Lilywhites have managed to keep six clean sheets in all competitions already this season. Their chemistry, combined with their aggressive yet disciplined approach, has made the North London club far more compact and defensively solid.

Thomas Frank has now taken the opportunity to single out Romero for praise following his excellent start to the new campaign. Speaking in his pre-match presser (via Beanyman Sports), Frank said,

“I think Cuti is a top central defender in every aspect. As a leader, as a defender, and as a, playmaker is maybe a big word, but as a player that helps the team building from the back.”

Frank believes Romero has already achieved ‘world-class’ status at N17 and has been instrumental for the Lilywhites in every aspect of the game. The Argentine has led by example, remained defensively flawless, and played a crucial role in executing Frank’s system this season. It’s no surprise that he’s one of the first names on the team sheet under the Danish tactician.

However, the 27-year-old has now picked up an injury that will rule him out of the upcoming Premier League clash against Everton. It will be interesting to see how Thomas Frank’s side cope without their captain against such a tricky opponent away from home. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but Tottenham will hope he returns in time for the upcoming fixtures before the November international break begins.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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