Liverpool legend Javier Mascherano has echoed Lionel Messi’s praise for Cristian Romero, hailing the Tottenham defender as potentially “the best in the world”.
Since joining Tottenham for £42 million in 2021, Argentina’s Cristian Romero has attracted attention for his consistent performances at club level as well as on the international stage, with his contributions playing a crucial role in Argentina’s 2021 Copa America victory and subsequent World Cup triumph.
Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi was vocal in his praise of Romero after last year’s World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, saying without mincing words: “For me, he’s the best defender in the world right now. His performance tonight was fantastic. Man of the match.”
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Now, as Romero continues to impress in the latest Copa America, another Argentina icon, former Liverpool and Barcelona powerhouse Mascherano, has joined in singing the centre-back’s praises.
Mascherano, current manager of Argentina’s U-23 national team, commented, “Cuty Romero is one of the best center backs in the world, even if he is already the best. I don’t know what his limits are.”
“He has demonstrated that throughout his season at Tottenham. He is a hugely important cornerstone player for the team and the Tottenham manager has praised him on numerous occasions in big games.”
“I think he’s at an incredible level. He’s a player with great ability who continues to grow and improve. The level he’s reaching is incredible.”
Romero has been at Tottenham for three seasons now and was named the 2020/21 Serie A Defender of the Year. His attacking tackling, strength and smooth passing skills have made him a vital player for Tottenham under manager Ange Postecoglou, missing just five league games last season.
Romero, who kept 18 clean sheets in the Premier League during his time at Tottenham, will be eager to win another Copa America winners’ medal before returning to England this summer.