Cristian Romero Leaves Tottenham to Join Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid have signed Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero on a five-year deal until June 2031, the Spanish club confirmed Saturday. British media reported the transfer fee at around £34.2 million ($46.27 million), though the clubs have not officially disclosed the amount.

The 28-year-old Argentina international made 156 appearances and scored 13 goals for Spurs after joining on loan from Atalanta in 2021, later turning the move permanent. His standout moment came in the 2025 Europa League final, where Tottenham beat Manchester United to win their first trophy in 17 years.

Romero's final months at the club were overshadowed by controversy. He suffered a knee injury against Sunderland in April that ruled him out for the rest of the season and drew criticism for planning to travel to Argentina to watch his boyhood club Belgrano's cup final instead of Spurs' relegation-threatened match against Everton. He ultimately returned to support the team, who won 1-0 to secure survival and finish 17th for a second straight season.

Bidding farewell on social media, Romero acknowledged he "wasn't perfect" during his time at the club but said he always gave everything and defended the shirt "with pride and with all my heart." He added that although he is leaving, a part of him will always remain at Tottenham.

Romero was part of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad and also featured in the 2026 tournament including the final.