SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Danny Röhl(L) and Ralph Hasenhuttl during a Southampton FC open training session at St Mary's Stadium on May 08, 2019 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)
Romeo Lavia has had a frustrating start to his Chelsea career. There were high hopes for the 20-year-old when he joined from Southampton in a deal worth £58million last August.
The midfielder signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge and although he was seen as one for the future, Mauricio Pochettino believed he could challenge Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Conor Gallagher for a place in Chelsea’s midfield. Injuries prevented that from happening, however, with Lavia missing most of the campaign due to injury.
Hamstring, thigh and ankle injuries meant Lavia appeared only once for the Blues during the 2023/24 season, coming off the bench and playing 32 minutes against Crystal Palace in December. He only made the bench one other time so Chelsea supporters have not really had the chance to see their No.45 in action.
Lavia opened up on his first season in west London in March, describing the period as “frustrating”. He said on Instagram: “As you may know and despite my countless efforts, I will be missing the remainder of the season.
“This has been a frustrating season for me, not being able to help my team-mates. I love this squad, this badge and being on the pitch more than anything. Trust that I have given my all every day to get back.
“Thank you for the love, support and critics because they all affect me positively and keep me going. I can’t wait to give it back and share many special moments together. See you soon.”
Chelsea chiefs believe Lavia will come good. He was purchased with the future in mind and it’s possible he still has a big career at Stamford Bridge.
“We are very pleased to welcome Romeo to Chelsea,” said co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said after the midfielder’s signing was announced. “He demonstrated his quality in the Premier League last season at Southampton, showing maturity despite his young age, and is a player we have monitored for some time. We believe he is ready to make an impact at Chelsea throughout the current campaign, and in the coming years.”
