Romeo Lavia Faces Extended Absence Due to Quadriceps Injury

Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia is anticipated to be unavailable for at least a month due to a quadriceps injury.

The 21-year-old’s tenure at Stamford Bridge has been marred by ongoing fitness issues. Lavia sustained the injury just four minutes into the recent 2-2 Champions League match against Qarabag, marking his fourth start since returning from a previous injury incurred at the Club World Cup.

Since his transfer to Chelsea from Southampton in a £53 million deal in 2023—having opted against a move to Liverpool—Lavia has faced recurrent injuries. Although he has made 29 appearances for the club, he has unfortunately missed 88 matches over the span of two and a half seasons.

A combination of hamstring, thigh, and other unspecified injuries has hindered Lavia, who has yet to complete a full 90 minutes in his time with Chelsea. The club has attempted to manage his fitness by limiting his playing time and restricting him to one match per week.

In contrast, team captain Reece James is now believed to have overcome the most severe of his injury challenges after adhering to a similar management strategy.

Lavia is expected to miss upcoming fixtures against Burnley, Barcelona, Arsenal, Leeds, Bournemouth, and Atalanta.

Currently, Chelsea holds third place in the Premier League following their 3-0 victory over Wolves last Saturday.