Argentina international and Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero has fired back at former England international turned television pundit Gary Neville, following Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinals.
Neville had previously sparked controversy by describing the defensive partnership of Romero and Lisandro Martínez as highly volatile. The pundit labeled them “the best worst center-back partnership in the world,” claiming that while they are energetic and capable of sublime moments, they also risk looking ridiculous and conceding soft goals in almost every game.
Read more about this topic: World Cup: Argentina complete comeback against England to reach final (with video)
Romero did not hold back when asked about Neville’s comments after securing a spot in the final. The Argentine defender expressed his hope that he would not become as “stupid” during his own retirement, arguing that pundits should not criticize active players who are giving everything for their national teams.
He emphasized that sometimes matches go well and sometimes they go poorly, but his team is incredibly proud to reach another World Cup final. Romero added that the current squad is making history and feels the weight and significance of the Argentine shirt deeper than anyone else.
🇦🇷CUTI ROMERO y LISANDRO MARTÍNEZ le RESPONDIERON a GARY NEVILLE:
🗣️LICHA: “Estamos acostumbrados que hablen de nosotros, NOSOTROS RESPONDEMOS EN LA CANCHA”.
🗣️CUTI: “Ojalá cuando me retire, NO SEA TAN ESTÚPIDO”.pic.twitter.com/gLSpso2k7s https://t.co/cbXaNzhgHB
— Deportes 24 – Argentina (@deportes24ar) July 15, 2026
