Cristian Romero has acknowledged that he "wasn't perfect" during his five-year stint with Tottenham Hotspur, as he prepares for a transfer to Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club has reportedly agreed to pay £34.2 million for the 28-year-old centre-back.

Romero's final appearance for Tottenham came against Sunderland in April, where he exited the match in tears due to a knee injury that sidelined him for the last six Premier League games. His absence was particularly felt as the team battled relegation, and he faced criticism for planning to be in Argentina for their crucial final game, intending to watch his first club Belgrano in the Primera Division Apertura final.

Ultimately, he returned to witness Spurs secure a vital 1-0 victory over Everton, ensuring they finished 17th for the second consecutive season.

In a heartfelt message posted on X, Romero expressed:

I know I wasn't perfect, but one thing gives me peace: I always gave everything. I defended this shirt with pride and with all my heart.

Having joined Tottenham from Atalanta in 2021, Romero became a key figure in their defense, making 156 appearances. His crowning achievement with the club was winning their first trophy in 17 years, triumphing over Manchester United in the 2025 Europa League final.

Reflecting on his time at the club, he stated, "When I arrived, I had a clear dream: to leave my name in this club's history. I knew the only way was through hard work, sacrifice and achieving something that had seemed so difficult for so long: lifting a trophy again. And we did it."

As he departs, Romero added, "I'm leaving the club, but a part of my heart will always remain here. Once I was one of you. Today, I leave as one of you forever. With all my love and respect. Thank you for everything."