Why is Cristian Romero suspended for Tottenham vs Qarabag?

Ange Postecoglou is preparing for his first UEFA Europa League game of the season. However, Cristian Romero will miss Tottenham vs Qarabag.

Tottenham Hotspur return to European action this week. Unfortunately, they missed out on the top four last season but the UEFA Europa League is still exciting for Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham prepare for their first match and thankfully, it comes at home. They will face Qarabag FK at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday evening.

The European schedule is undeniably difficult to contend with. However, Ange Postecoglou was wise enough to build some good squad depth in the summer, allowing for rotation in these games.

With that being said, why is Cristian Romero suspended for Tottenham vs Qarabag?

Why is Cristian Romero suspended for Tottenham vs Qarabag?

Tottenham defender Cristian Romero is still suspended in UEFA competition. He picked up a red card when Tottenham last played a European match, in the 2022/23 UCL match against AC Milan.

Despite the match taking place two seasons ago, UEFA rules state that suspensions are not disregarded despite season changes. So, a year and a half later, Romero will finally serve his suspension against Qarabag.

It is one of those instances which is rare and relatively unheard of. Cristian Romero feels like a completely different player now compared to what he was like in 2023. Alas, these are the rules.

Thankfully for Tottenham, they can live without Romero in this match. With no disrespect to the opposition, Ange Postecoglou would have probably rotated his starting lineup anyway.

It is frustrating, sure, because Tottenham cannot call upon the Argentine should they need him. That said, the game is expected to be smooth-sailing for Tottenham (if any game ever is).

Needless to say, Tottenham have other injury concerns. Wilson Odobert is expected to miss this match and so too is Richarlison, having not trained.

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