EXCLUSIVE: Cristian Romero has formed a solid centre-back partnership with Micky van de Ven this season under Thomas Frank, and former Tottenham midfielder Sandro has now had his say on the pair
07:00, 15 Nov 2025
Cristian Romero looks on
View 3 Images
Cristian Romero has been a key player for Tottenham Hotspur(Image: Offside via Getty Images)
Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Sandro has snubbed Arsenal when delivering his verdict on the Premier League's best centre-back partnership.
Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba have formed a formidable partnership at the Gunners in recent seasons. Arsenal's centre-back duo have conceded a meagre five goals in the English top-flight so far this season, with their performances playing a key role in Mikel Arteta's side having a four-point lead.
The Gunners' partnership in defence is widely viewed as the best in the Premier League as Arsenal chase a first league title since 2004. But Sandro has a different view.
Speaking exclusively to football.london, via football odds, the Brazilian was asked if Tottenham's Romero and Micky van de Ven partnership is the league's best. He admits to enjoying how Romero deals with referees and Tottenham's players.
"I think so, I believe that it is the best defensive partnership in the Premier League, because you can see the quality that Van de Ven has and his speed," he said.
"Yes, he made a mistake against Chelsea, but who doesn't make a mistake? Everybody does, and if you balance the mistakes and the good things that he does, he’s amazing."
Discussing Romero's behaviour, Sandro added: "The leadership that Romero has, it's unbelievable. You can see straight away the way he manages the game, the way he talks with the referees, with the midfielders. I love Romero. Proper leader.
Micky van de Ven celebrates his goal with Cristian Romero during the UEFA Champions League match between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Copenhagen
View 3 Images
Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have formed a solid partnership at Tottenham Hotspur
"And I think he's now reading the game a little bit more to get into positions, where he used to get stupid yellow cards and red cards. But now, I think he has learned a little bit. Okay, he's never going to change, he goes for the ball, but I think he's now a bit calmer."
Sandro's view contrasts that of Arsenal legend Martin Keown. The ex-England defender has previously proclaimed that Magalhaes and Saliba are the best defensive partnership in Europe.
“Gabriel and Saliba are the best partnership in Europe; they’re aggressive, contact players," he told TNT Sports in 2024.
Gabriel and William Saliba of Arsenal celebrate following the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James' Park on September 28, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England
View 3 Images
Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba have been sensational defensively for Arsenal(Image: Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Article continues below
Former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand agrees. "I think they are the best pairing in Europe," he said on his Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel.
"They complement each other, their styles are perfect for each other. A good mix and blend."
Arsenal and Tottenham will have a chance to prove which partnership is best when both teams face off in their first fixture after the international break on Sunday, November 23.