Romeo Lavia’s tenure at Chelsea has been marked by both skepticism and transformation. The £58 million midfielder initially raised eyebrows due to his perceived lack of defensive prowess and goal-scoring ability. However, when fit, Lavia has consistently elevated Chelsea’s performance. In the nine Premier League starts he made this season, Chelsea only suffered two losses, including a narrow defeat against Manchester City on the opening day. His presence has been particularly crucial when Enzo Fernandez was out of favor, helping Chelsea stabilize their midfield.
Maresca said: “I spent one entire season with Romeo when I was under-23 at City. So I know Romeo very well. For us it’s like Reece, they are both top players. The only shame for us is that unfortunately we need to manage them, we need to protect them. But no doubt that Chelsea with Reece and Romeo, it’s a better team.”
Maresca continued: “He’s one of the best midfielders [when available] because he can defend very well, he can attack, he breaks the line, the pass between the lines, it’s unbelievable. He’s very good and hopefully we can have him until the end of the season.”
Lavia’s return has not only bolstered Chelsea’s midfield but also allowed for tactical reshuffles. His presence necessitated Moises Caicedo’s shift to right-back, a move that underscores Lavia’s influence. Despite fitness concerns, his ability to disrupt opposition defenses with line-breaking passes and dribbles has been invaluable. However, his inclusion also presents challenges, such as the impact on Caicedo’s role and the need for careful squad management.
The introduction of Lavia has also provided relief to Cole Palmer, who has struggled in the No.10 role. With Lavia in the center, Fernandez can push forward, allowing Palmer more space on the right. This adjustment could potentially revitalize Palmer’s form, reminiscent of his impactful performances under Mauricio Pochettino last season.
As Chelsea navigates a challenging season, Lavia’s role becomes increasingly critical. His ability to unlock the potential of his teammates could be pivotal in Chelsea’s pursuit of a top-five finish and Champions League qualification. With fewer fixtures to manage, maintaining Lavia’s fitness for the remainder of the season is paramount.
