Cristian Romero was sent off after receiving a straight red card for a challenge on Manchester United midfielder Casemiro on Saturday.
Tottenham went into half-time trailing 1–0 at Old Trafford, leaving Thomas Frank’s side with a huge uphill task in the second half. The pressure continues to mount on the Spurs boss, with his team now winless in their last six Premier League matches.
Romero had recently criticised Tottenham’s board over the shortage of fit first-team players following the 2–2 draw with Manchester City, but his dismissal against United has only worsened that problem.
As shown by Sofascore, the Spurs captain lasted just 29 minutes before being ordered off. The incident occurred as Romero attempted to dribble out from the back before being closed down by Casemiro. In the ensuing 50–50 challenge, Romero followed through while clearing the ball, leaving his right boot high on Casemiro’s planted ankle.
While there appeared to be no clear intent to injure, and Romero may not have fully anticipated Casemiro’s challenge, referee Michael Oliver judged the action to be dangerous. The Premier League Match Centre later released a statement via X explaining the decision.
Romero is now set to miss Tottenham’s next four matches, including fixtures against Newcastle, Fulham and Crystal Palace, as well as the crucial North London derby against Arsenal on 22 February.
With Spurs already short of defensive options, his absence further compounds Frank’s selection problems. Tottenham are now left with Micky van de Ven, Radu Drăgușin and 17-year-old Jun’ai Byfield as their only available centre-backs, with Kevin Danso and Ben Davies still sidelined.
