Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has defended captain Cristian Romero's decision to travel to Argentina rather than attend Sunday's crucial Premier League survival clash against Everton, saying "not all leaders are the same."

Spurs sit 17th in the table, two points above West Ham United on goal difference, heading into what amounts to a relegation decider at home to Everton. Romero, sidelined since April with a knee injury, has flown to Argentina to watch his boyhood club Belgrano face River Plate in a title decider — the same day Tottenham Hotspur battle for their top-flight status.

De Zerbi's measured response

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, De Zerbi drew a pointed contrast with defender Ben Davies, who volunteered to remain with the squad. "Sometimes, not all the leaders are the same," the Italian said. "Ben Davies spoke with me and asked to stay today to work with us. Tomorrow, we sleep in the hotel. He wanted to stay with the team and team-mates."

De Zerbi insisted Romero's trip was sanctioned through proper channels. "He spoke with the medical staff. Together, they decided to go to Argentina to complete rehab with Argentinian medical staff," he explained. The manager also stressed his own limits when it comes to player loyalty. "I am not stupid. If I understand that there is a player who thinks for himself before the club, I cannot be the same Roberto."

On Romero specifically, De Zerbi remained measured: "With me, in my time, he has been correct at the beginning until now."

Fan frustration acknowledged

Romero's absence has drawn fierce criticism from Tottenham Hotspur supporters, and De Zerbi did not shy away from that reality. "100 per cent I understand," he said when the backlash was raised. He nonetheless backed the Argentine: "Cristian is a top player and with me, he was a top guy. When I say top guy, it is because I am certain what I am seeing."

Romero has been repeatedly linked with a departure since joining in 2022, though he signed a new contract last August — committing to the club until 2029 — following Tottenham Hotspur's Europa League triumph over Manchester United in Bilbao.

Future left uncertain

When pressed on whether Romero had featured in a Spurs shirt for the last time, De Zerbi declined to give a firm answer. "For the future, I don't know," he said. "It is a crucial game for the fans and our club. I don't want answers on Romero."

Instead, the manager shifted focus to the players who will take to the pitch on Sunday. "My focus is on Djed Spence, Kolo Muani and Richarlison. We have to play with blood, character and spirit because it is a final."

De Zerbi reminded his squad of what is truly at stake, referencing last season's trophy win as a contrast. "After tomorrow, there is not a trophy or a bonus, there is something more important — the future and the history of the club. The pride of the players and the dignity of everyone of us."