
In the latest FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier between Argentina and Paraguay, there were concerning scenes as Cristian “Cuti” Romero appeared to have reinjured his foot during the match, raising fresh worries for both Argentina and his club Tottenham Hotspur.
The Injury:
- What Happened: Romero, a key figure in Argentina’s defense, was seen limping after a challenge during the second half of the match. The center-back had previously been sidelined due to a foot injury, and this latest incident has left many concerned that he may have aggravated the issue.
- Visible Discomfort: As the match progressed, Romero seemed to be in significant discomfort, limping around the pitch. The injury appeared to be related to the same foot that kept him out of previous games for Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the season.
Impact on Argentina and Tottenham:
- For Argentina: Romero has been one of the most consistent and reliable players in Argentina’s defense, playing an integral role in their Copa América 2021 triumph and their World Cup qualifiers. Losing him could leave a significant gap in their defense, especially with upcoming qualifiers.
- For Tottenham Hotspur: Romero’s injury is a major concern for Spurs, as he has been one of their standout performers this season in the Premier League. Antonio Conte will undoubtedly be hoping the injury isn’t serious, as losing Romero for an extended period would be a blow to their defensive solidity.
Previous Injury Concerns:
This isn’t the first time that Romero has had issues with his foot. Earlier in the season, he missed several matches for Tottenham due to a foot injury that required treatment. Despite being cleared to play for Argentina, this recent reinjury has put both his international and club commitments in jeopardy.
What’s Next for Romero?
- Medical Assessment: After the game, Romero was reportedly assessed by Argentina’s medical team. Early reports suggest that it could be a reoccurrence of the previous injury, but further scans and evaluations will likely determine the severity of the issue.
- Recovery Time: Depending on the results of his medical scans, Romero could face a short to medium-term recovery. If the injury is not too severe, he could return to action relatively soon. However, if it’s a more serious issue, he might be sidelined for weeks, which would be a major blow to both Argentina and Tottenham Hotspur.
Tottenham’s Backup Plans:
Should Romero be out for a while, Antonio Conte might have to look to Ben Davies, Eric Dier, or even Japhet Tanganga to fill in at center-back for Tottenham. The club will likely also monitor Romero’s recovery closely to ensure they can make the necessary adjustments in their defensive lineup