Atlético de Madrid: Cristian Romero joins the Colchoneros until 2031

Cristian Romero leaves Tottenham after five seasons to join Atlético de Madrid, where the Argentine defender has signed a contract until June 30, 2031. At 28, the 2022 World Cup winner arrives with a wealth of European experience and an already impressive record with the Albiceleste.

Atlético de Madrid officially announced on Saturday, August 15, the arrival of Cristian Gabriel "Cuti" Romero from Tottenham Hotspur. The two clubs reached an agreement for the transfer of the Argentine centre-back, who passed his medical in Madrid before signing a contract running until June 2031.

A right-footer, powerful and especially aggressive in duels, Romero is renowned for his anticipation, authority, and leadership. He comes to strengthen Atlético’s backline, bringing the profile of a player already accustomed to the demands of top-level European and international football.

Five seasons and a major trophy with Tottenham

Romero leaves London after five seasons in a Spurs shirt. Having joined Tottenham permanently after a loan spell in 2021-2022, the Argentine played a total of 156 matches, scoring 13 goals and providing 7 assists.

His time in England was especially highlighted by the Europa League triumph in 2024-2025. Romero played a key role throughout the campaign, ultimately being named the competition’s best player and man of the match in the final, which Tottenham won.

This success earned the Spurs their first European trophy in 31 years—a particularly meaningful achievement for Romero, who had made winning a title with Tottenham one of his personal goals.

A meteoric rise from Argentina

Born April 27, 1998, in Córdoba, Romero began his professional career at Belgrano, making his first-team debut in August 2016.

After two seasons in Argentina, he crossed the Atlantic to join Genoa. His performances in Serie A quickly caught the attention of Juventus, who signed him in 2019 before loaning him back to Genoa and then to Atalanta.

It was with Atalanta, during the 2020-2021 season, that Romero truly broke through. He established himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A and was voted the league’s best defender.

His rapid ascent then led him to the Premier League, where Tottenham eventually exercised the option to sign him permanently.

An impressive trophy haul with Argentina

Romero’s international journey is just as remarkable. First called up for Argentina in June 2021, he now boasts 58 caps with the Albiceleste.

Since making his international debut, he has played a part in the national team’s greatest triumphs. He notably won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América.

Romero was a key figure for Lionel Scaloni’s side during their World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022. He also played in the recent 2026 World Cup final, which Argentina lost.

Turning the page with Tottenham

Before leaving, Romero shared a heartfelt message with Tottenham supporters. The Argentine explained that his time in London was much more than just a sporting adventure, describing it as a “home” where he and his family built an important part of their lives.

Above all, he leaves the Spurs feeling he has achieved the goal he set for himself upon arrival: lifting a trophy with the club.

“I defended this shirt with pride and all my heart,” Romero wrote, adding that a part of his heart will always remain at Tottenham.

For their part, the London club confirmed the agreement with Atlético and wished “all the best” to their former defender.

A new challenge in Madrid

At Atlético, Romero now embarks on a new chapter in his career. At 28, he arrives in Madrid with a wealth of experience in Serie A, the Premier League, European competitions, and with Argentina.

Already touted as a defender capable of bringing intensity, character, and leadership, the new Colchonero quickly joined his new teammates for training at Cerro del Espino.

After spells with Belgrano, Genoa, Juventus, Atalanta, and Tottenham, Cristian “Cuti” Romero now lands in Madrid with one goal: to impose his presence at the heart of Atlético’s defense and write a new chapter in a career already filled with success.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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