Chris Smalling vs Cristian Romero
Per-90 stats comparison · Rising Transfers DNA Analysis · 2025/26 season
Data Verdict
Cristian Romero commands a higher market value (€50.0M vs €15.0M). Chris Smalling leads in clearances / 90 and pass accuracy %. Cristian Romero is stronger in goals / 90 and tackles won / 90. Overall, Cristian Romero holds the statistical edge across 4 of 6 comparable metrics.
Based on per-90 statistics · How we compare players →
Playing Style Profiles
Smalling is the rare veteran centre-back whose most statistically distinguished contribution in the Pro League this season is putting the ball in the net. That goals-per-90 figure landing in the top 20% among defenders tells you something about his timing and threat from set-pieces—a weapon that never shows up on a defensive report but wins points.
A Ball-Playing CB. Statistically, he stands out as an aggressive ball-winner (2.8 tackles/90), commanding in the air (4.5 clearances/90), meticulous in distribution (87% pass accuracy), wins the physical battle (66% duel success), dominant in the air (3.5 aerials won/90, 71%), active off the ball (2.6 press score/90), contributing to defensive transitions and top 10% tackler in the league.
Per-90 Statistics Comparison
| Metric | Chris Smalling | Cristian Romero | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goals / 90 | 0.10 | 0.19 | Cristian |
| Tackles won / 90 | 0.44 | 1.42 | Cristian |
| Interceptions / 90 | 0.89 | 1.44 | Cristian |
| Clearances / 90 | 6.47 | 4.51 | Chris |
| Press intensity / 90 | 1.21 | 2.58 | Cristian |
| Pass accuracy % | 88.30 | 87.30 | Chris |
All statistics per 90 minutes · 2025/26 season · FULL quality DNA data only
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the better player — Chris Smalling or Cristian Romero ?
Cristian Romero commands a higher market value (€50.0M vs €15.0M). Chris Smalling leads in clearances / 90 and pass accuracy %. Cristian Romero is stronger in goals / 90 and tackles won / 90. Overall, Cristian Romero holds the statistical edge across 4 of 6 comparable metrics.
How is this comparison calculated?
Rising Transfers compares players using per-90 statistics normalised for playing time, combined with DNA playing style vectors built from 47 performance dimensions. This ensures fair comparison regardless of team, league, or playing time. Learn more about our comparison methodology →
What are their market values?
Chris Smalling has a market value of €15.0M, while Cristian Romero is valued at €50.0M.