Tottenham defender Cristian Romero came under heavy criticism following his performance against Manchester United, as former England international Stuart Pearce labelled him “horrific” and even described him as Tottenham’s “weakness.”
The Argentine centre-back, who captained Spurs in the match, endured a difficult afternoon as his team was held to a 2-2 draw at home on Saturday.
Tottenham found themselves behind in the first half after Bryan Mbeumo’s powerful header put Manchester United ahead.
The visitors appeared in control and seemed likely to continue their unbeaten Premier League run. However, Spurs fought back late in the game, showing resilience and attacking intent.
Mathys Tel levelled the score with just six minutes remaining before Richarlison netted in stoppage time, sending the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium into a frenzy. But the excitement was short-lived.
In the dying seconds, United defender Matthijs de Ligt scored a late equaliser, ensuring both sides shared the points in a dramatic finale.
Despite the thrilling comeback, Romero’s display did not escape scrutiny. He was substituted in the 88th minute with the score tied at 1-1, but by that time, Pearce had already voiced strong concerns about the defender’s lack of discipline and poor positioning.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Pearce said, “If I was a chief scout sent to watch Romero, I would identify him as a weakness. You can certainly get in behind him. And if I was sent on behalf of recruitment, I would say, ‘Leave him where he is!’”
Pearce didn’t hold back in his criticism, continuing, “It’s horrific what Romero is doing at the moment. He gives the ball away in midfield and doesn’t even make a recovery run.
As a defender, that should be natural. He’s pushing up to defend high, getting completely bypassed, and then just jogging back with no urgency to help his team. It’s unbelievable, especially from the captain.”
Romero, who has been one of Tottenham’s most consistent players in past seasons, appeared off the pace against United. His decision-making and defensive awareness were repeatedly exposed as the visitors created dangerous chances.
For many fans, it was a concerning performance from a player known for his aggression and leadership.
While Romero’s outing drew criticism, Tottenham boss Thomas Frank focused on the positives, praising his side’s second-half response. “I think it was a good performance overall, especially in the second half,” Frank said after the game.
“When we came out 1-0 down, the players stayed in the game, followed our principles, and showed great spirit. We turned it around and deservedly equalised. We even thought we had won it at the end before they got that late equaliser. It’s disappointing to concede so late, but it happens in football. What matters is that the team showed character and a willingness to fight.”
Frank was also questioned about his substitution decisions, particularly the choice to replace Xavi Simons with Mathys Tel in the 79th minute a move that initially drew boos from supporters.
However, his decision proved to be a masterstroke, as Tel’s energy and movement changed the game and led to the equaliser. “Every time I make a substitution, I do it for the best of the team,” Frank explained.
“My only goal is to help us win. Today, it worked. Mathys came on and scored the goal. For Xavi, it was another step forward in his development. He’s started a lot of matches lately, and we needed some fresh legs.”
The draw leaves Tottenham still searching for consistency under Frank. While their attacking display improved in the second half, defensive lapses continue to cost them valuable points.
For Frank, it’s about finding balance turning periods of promise into full performances. “It’s a good step forward,” he said. “We’re not where we want to be yet in terms of free-flowing football, but we’re moving in the right direction.”
As for Romero, his performance will surely be a topic of discussion heading into the international break. A player of his calibre will be expected to respond strongly when Tottenham return to action, proving that one off-day won’t define his season.
