The 2026 World Cup is officially in the books, and Tottenham Hotspur have another world champion. The semifinal results guaranteed a victor from N17, and Pedro Porro's Spain triumphed in New Jersey.
However, Porro's victory meant Cristian Romero and Marcos Senesi were consigned to defeat on the big stage. Argentina were completely stymied by the mechanically brilliant European champions, who dominated proceedings but didn't break the deadlock until the 106th minute.
Porro's stock has soared this summer, and the contract extension he signed pre-tournament was well-timed from a Spurs perspective. We watched on like proud parents at their child's graduation when the rightback went up to collect his winners' medal, having proved to the world just how good he can be in the right environment.
While Porro is poised to play a big part for Roberto De Zerbi's team next season, there remains an expectation that captain Romero will soon bid farewell. The centre-back was in the shop window this summer, and the club will hope that the injury he sustained in Sunday's final is merely minor.
Spurs hoping Cristian Romero's injury doesn't scupper transfer plan
Plenty slandered Argentina's thuggish antics at the World Cup, but Romero was often able to keep a cool head. The defender produced another fine individual campaign, having entered the tournament with a knee injury and picking up a knock in the second group game against Austria.
Argentina struggled defensively as a collective before proving robust in the final. Romero was initially excellent alongside Lisandro MartÃnez, who was forced off with an injury before half-time.
Then it was Romero's turn to succumb. The Tottenham man collapsed in a heap before the second hydration break, and was subsequently removed from proceedings. He then became Lionel Scaloni's assistant on the touchline, pointing and gesticulating for the remainder of the contest as his team fell to a just defeat.
While there was little talk about Romero's injury post-match, with more focus surrounding his snub of Donald Trump, Spurs will hope that their captain has avoided a notable issue. Otherwise, they'll struggle to find a buyer for him this summer.
Romero's market has improved after a quiet start to the window. Barcelona and Inter Milan are among the clubs reportedly interested, although the latter will struggle to match Spurs' asking price, which may have only increased after the World Cup.
In truth, I think some of us won't realise what we could be missing in Romero if he does move on. Yes, he had a bad season, but I maintain that a fully focused Cristian Romero is as good as any centre-back in the world.
Jan Paul van Hecke has big shoes to fill.
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