Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia is finally closing in on a first-team return, with the highly anticipated London derby against Arsenal earmarked for his comeback if he comes through unscathed in the Under-21s.
Since joining Chelsea in the summer of 2023, Romeo Lavia has missed a total of 98 games across all competitions due to various injury setbacks. And 23 of those matches have come so far this season, following his quadriceps injury in November.
Ahead of his return, Romeo Lavia has actually been using Virtual Reality to try to level up his game.
But it’s important not to rush the midfielder back into action too soon, as a repeat of any kind of injury would be devastating for Lavia and Chelsea.
His first test is an Under-21 clash against Leeds United.
Be honest, which full-back can you imagine Estevao possibly struggling against? ❌
Estevao Willian dribbling stat
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Romeo Lavia set to appear for Chelsea Under-21 side
Kieran Gill has revealed the latest in Romeo Lavia’s recovery from injury.
Romeo Lavia set to play for Chelsea U21s vs Leeds tomorrow afternoon in PL2. The idea is to help build him up for a return to the senior side. Hoped the 22-year-old will be available for the Premier League game vs Arsenal next weekend. Trained fully last two weeks without setbacks
Bobby Vincent also shared that Lavia has been undergoing a slightly different rehab than usual with Chelsea looking to find a long-term solution to his injury nightmare.
Don’t count Tosin out just yet! 😤
Tosin Adarabioyo's number of ground duels vs Burnley
Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
Where Romeo Lavia fits into Liam Rosenior’s plans
Romeo Lavia enters a Chelsea midfield that has recently found stability under Liam Rosenior through Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos.
In Rosenior’s preferred 4-2-3-1 system, Lavia fits most naturally into the defensive pivot, where he can use his press-resistance and passing ability to transition the ball from defense to attack. His return is particularly timely because it allows Fernandez to continue playing in a more advanced attacking role.
But Lavia’s primary competition for a starting spot will be Andrey Santos.
Beyond the tactical fit, Lavia provides much-needed depth as Chelsea head into a busy period with the Champions League and domestic cups. Given that squad players like Dario Essugo are also dealing with fitness issues, Lavia will likely be rotated heavily with Santos to manage his minutes.
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