Cristian Romero, a standout for Tottenham, has been dubbed the best defender in the world by Lionel Messi.
After having a challenging first two years since joining the club, Romero has had a fresh start at Tottenham under the leadership of new manager Ange Postecoglou.
The 25-year-old, who received harsh criticism under Nuno Espirito Santo and Antonio Conte, has thrived in a more upbeat squad with stronger attacking instincts and the ability to keep the ball for longer.
Spurs have won three of their first four Premier League games this season thanks in part to his performance, and the team is currently second in the standings behind only Manchester City.
While the two are abroad on international duty, Romero’s Argentina teammate Messi cannot say enough good things about him.
He is currently the best defender in the world in my opinion. He described his performance tonight as “amazing, man of the match,” according to the Evening Standard.
World champions Argentina defeated Ecuador 1-0 in their most recent international game on Friday, with Messi scoring the game’s lone goal in the game’s 78th minute.
Romero participated in the game as well and once again put on an outstanding performance by recording another clean sheet.
Romero has been practically the first name on the team sheet this season, defying those who had doubts about his ability to earn a spot in Postecoglou’s revamped squad.
He has been a valuable asset for the Australian thanks to his ball handling skills and quick recovery pace, and his combination with Micky Van de Ven gets better every week.
Romero was also among the first athletes to criticize the division at the team under previous manager Conte last year.
When I returned to Tottenham after winning the World Cup, the group and the staff were somewhat divided, he recalled. “This is quite challenging. Aston Villa hosted my first game back at home. That was the beginning of it all; we lost 2-0.
We would win a game followed by two losses. It becomes very challenging when there is division and players and coaches are not pulling in the same direction.
However, I’m the first to put up my hands and own fault for the disappointing season we had. I’m disappointed with how the season ended and am prepared to repay the club’s faith in me by doing my absolute best.
After the end of the international break, Tottenham will play Sheffield United in the Premier League the following weekend.
