The Argentinian full-back did not reach for comfortable language when he faced the Movistar LaLiga cameras afterwards.
"The truth is that the second half of the season has been awful, speaking plainly. But I want to thank the fans for always being there despite the poor run."
Espanyol went 18 league matches without a win during the season, a sequence that had placed their top-flight status in serious danger. The turnaround in recent weeks, which produced back-to-back victories, was the minimum required to ensure survival.
Romero accepted that the players, not the coaching staff, bore responsibility for the difficult spell.
"We have had a terrible time. From here, I want to apologise to the manager. This has been down to the players. The first part of the season was incredible. We have gone 18 matches without winning and in many of those games we could have won. Happy for the second consecutive victory and we will try to win the third in a row next week."
He also reflected on his own contribution, which exceeded the expectations he had set for himself at the start of the campaign.
"I did not expect these numbers. I have fulfilled the bet of scoring six goals. I want to say a great farewell to these fans. I am proud of keeping Espanyol in the top flight again."
Romero's mention of a farewell suggests his time at the club may be coming to an end. The 28-year-old is in the final year of his contract with no public indication that an extension is being discussed.