Chelsea midfielder Roméo Lavia is making strides in his return from a quadriceps injury, recently featuring for the club’s Under-21 squad in a Premier League 2 match against Leeds United on Friday.
This marked Lavia’s first competitive action in over three months, after initially sustaining the injury during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Qarabag in the Champions League on November 5, 2025. The club has been carefully managing his recovery and his appearance with the development squad is a significant step forward.
Lavia joined Chelsea from Southampton in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of £53 million plus £5 million in add-ons, but injuries have limited his impact thus far. He has made 30 appearances across all competitions in the last two-and-a-half years, and is still awaiting his first full 90-minute performance for the club.
The 22-year-old, who also represents the Belgium national team, is hoping to bolster head coach Liam Rosenior’s midfield options as Chelsea navigate a busy schedule in the final stretch of the season. Roméo Lavia is known for his interceptions, composure, and physicality, qualities Chelsea will be eager to notice on display.
Chelsea will be hoping Lavia can stay fit and contribute consistently as they push for success on multiple fronts. His return provides a valuable boost to the squad’s depth and tactical options.