Romero to Atletico
Tottenham Captain Cristian Romero Transfers to Atletico Madrid for €40M After Five Seasons
Key Points
Cristian Romero was named UEFA Europa League Player of the Season for the 2024-25 campaign.
The €40 million move to Atletico Madrid reportedly includes add-ons as part of the deal.
Tottenham's contract with Romero was due to run until 2029, indicating a long-term plan previously in place before his departure.
In his farewell post, Romero publicly thanked the coaching staff, teammates, staff and everyone behind the scenes, emphasising that he felt part of the club's broader family.
Romero’s injuries were cited as having hampered Spurs during the previous season, contributing to a challenging campaign and squad instability.
Cristian Romero has confirmed he is leaving Tottenham Hotspur after five seasons, with Atletico Madrid set to sign the Argentine defender for around €40 million (£34.2 million), including add-ons. beIN Sports reported the deal also sees Spurs retain a 15% sell-on clause on any future transfer.
Romero, who was named UEFA Europa League Player of the Season for 2024-25, departs having helped Spurs win the Europa League — their first trophy since 2008. The Score noted his exit ends a five-year spell that brought both silverware and controversy to north London.
Romero's Emotional Farewell After Five Years at Spurs
Romero made his departure official through a heartfelt public message. He described Tottenham as his home and said the club would always hold a place in his heart. Irish News reported he thanked coaching staff, teammates and everyone behind the scenes, saying he felt part of a broader family.
The Argentine joined Spurs in 2021 and was handed the captaincy last year. His contract was set to run until 2029, suggesting the club had long-term plans for him. His decision to leave marks a major shift for a Tottenham squad still riding high from their European triumph.
Europa League Glory Caps Romero's Spurs Career
Romero's final season in north London was his best. He won the UEFA Europa League Player of the Season award for 2024-25. The trophy itself was Tottenham's first piece of silverware in 17 years, ending a long drought that had frustrated the club's fanbase.
In his farewell message, Romero said he was proud to have written his name into Spurs history. The Europa League win gave his exit a triumphant feel, even as supporters processed the loss of their captain so soon after the club's biggest moment in nearly two decades.
A Career Marked by Brilliance and Suspensions
Romero's time at Spurs was not without problems. France 24 noted he served several suspensions during his five years at the club. Injuries also played a role, with his absences cited as a key reason for Tottenham's instability in previous seasons.
Despite the controversies, his quality was never in doubt. Atletico Madrid had long admired him, and Inter Milan and Arsenal were also linked before Madrid won the race. RFI confirmed the €40 million fee, making it a significant but arguably reasonable price for a proven top-level defender.
What the Move Means for Both Clubs Going Forward
For Atletico Madrid, Romero is a major addition. Diego Simeone's side get a physical, aggressive center-back with Champions League and international pedigree. The 15% sell-on clause Spurs negotiated means Tottenham could earn more money if Atletico ever sell him on.
For Spurs, replacing a captain and Europa League winner will be a tough task this summer. The club received €40 million, but the bigger challenge is finding a defender of similar quality. Tottenham's recruitment team will face pressure to act quickly before the new season begins.
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