Cristian Romero, Tottenham Hotspur’s captain, has made multiple public criticisms of the club’s hierarchy and management during January 2026, primarily via Instagram posts amid a severe injury crisis, poor form, and a quiet transfer window. His criticisms escalated in two key instances:
Early January, around January 7-8, following a 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth:
After the loss, Romero posted an apology to fans and aimed at unnamed club figures for their lack of accountability. He wrote something along the lines of:
“Apologies to all fans… At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don’t – as has been happening for several years now. They only show up when things are going well, to tell a few lies.”
This was widely interpreted as a direct jab at the Tottenham board, ownership (ENIC), or executives for only communicating positively during good periods and staying silent during struggles. Manager Thomas Frank addressed it, urging Romero to keep some matters internal, but no disciplinary action (like stripping the captaincy) was taken. It highlighted growing frustration with the club’s direction under the new regime.
February 2, 2026, post-Manchester City 2-2 draw, right after the January transfer window closed:
Romero praised his teammates’ effort in the comeback draw despite playing while ill, and was subbed at half-time. He then highlighted the squad’s dire state:
“I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available – unbelievable but true and disgraceful.”
This came after Tottenham signed only two senior players in January (Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid and a young defender from Santos), sold last season’s top scorer Brennan Johnson, and dealt with at least 9-13 senior injuries (including key players like Maddison, Kulusevski, Richarlison, and defenders).
The post included a facepalm emoji for emphasis. It was seen as a clear dig at the recruitment strategy, board investment (despite reports of available funds), and overall squad planning under manager Thomas Frank.
These outbursts fit a pattern: Romero has previously praised former manager Ange Postecoglou for succeeding “despite obstacles,” thanked external medical staff over Spurs’, and called for more spending to match rivals.
Fans and media often frame them as justified frustration from a committed leader, with many supporters echoing calls for change. Teammates have liked his posts, showing some internal support, while the club has faced criticism for a squad now viewed as weaker post-window.
Overall, Romero’s comments this month underscore deep discontent at Tottenham’s handling of injuries, transfers, and communication during a tough season in which the team has hovered near the bottom of the Premier League table.
Given the lack of transfer activity, one can only assume that Cristian Romero’s critiques were not on anyone’s mind in the boardroom.