Romeo Lavia is beginning to show his quality at Chelsea after completing 90 minutes in consecutive matches for the first time since joining the club.
The Belgian midfielder featured for the entire game in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool before producing another impressive performance in Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Lavia’s display against United highlighted his importance to the team, with the 22-year-old recording nine defensive actions, winning seven ground duels, making five tackles and recovering possession 14 times.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso praised the midfielder’s contribution, revealing that he only learned of Lavia’s selection late on Friday following Jordan Henderson’s illness.
Alonso described the performance as outstanding and said Lavia deserved significant recognition for his efforts.
The midfielder, who joined Chelsea from Southampton in 2023 for a reported £53 million, also expressed satisfaction with his current fitness and form.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the United victory, Lavia said the work being done with Chelsea’s staff was producing positive results and stressed the importance of maintaining his progress.
He added that feeling physically well allowed him to give everything for the team and help secure important victories.
Cole Palmer was equally impressed, describing Lavia’s performance against Manchester United as one of his best and highlighting the quality that many people may not fully appreciate.
The occasion was made even more special by the presence of Chelsea legend Eden Hazard, who has maintained a close relationship with his fellow Belgian throughout his time at Stamford Bridge.
Lavia revealed that the pair speak regularly and expressed his happiness at seeing Hazard in attendance.
The midfielder also explained that knowing Hazard was proud of his performance provided additional motivation.
After a difficult period disrupted by injuries, Lavia’s recent displays offer Chelsea an encouraging sign as he looks to establish himself as a consistent presence in Alonso’s midfield.