Retired Belgium star explains why Romeo Lavia is so unique compared to other midfielders
It has been a bright start to the season for Chelsea’s Romeo Lavia, who is making an impact for both club and country right now.
Last week, Lavia made his first appearance for Belgium since making his debut for the Red Devils back in 2023. Injuries had prevented the midfielder from representing his country.
However, Lavia is fit again and arguably one of Chelsea’s most important players at the moment. With Moises Caicedo injured and Enzo Fernandez gone, he has been the only natural midfielder on the pitch for Chelsea at times this term.
Steven Defour praises Romeo Lavia’s first touch and ability to pass forward
Despite all of the injuries Lavia has suffered, former Belgium and Burnley midfielder Steven Defour is still a huge admirer. Defour feels that Lavia can do what other players in his position cannot, highlighting his ability on the ball.
He told Het Nieuwsblad: “Our defensive midfielder of the future who is already making an impact. It is impressive. The big difference between Lavia and the other players in that position — and I do not mean to detract from [Nicolas] Raskin — is that Lavia’s first touch is an oriented forward control or a forward pass.”
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Lavia’s talent has never been questioned. When the 22-year-old plays for Chelsea, his skill in possession is very visible.
Rather, the issue has been actually getting Lavia on the pitch. However, this season, the ex-Southampton player seems to have turned a page.
He has played in four of Chelsea’s five Premier League games, starting in each of those matches. It means he has already equalled the number of starts he made during the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
How Romeo Lavia performed in Belgium’s defeat to France
Lavia has returned to international football with a bang. Lavia had to be taken off in Belgium’s 1-0 loss to France due to cramp, but before that, he was having a very good game.
According to Sofascore, he made 10 defensive actions on the night. Only Chelsea teammate Maxence Lacroix managed to make more defensive contributions.
What was really impressive, though, was Lavia’s passing. He completed all 37 of his passes, with one creating a chance for Belgium. Chelsea fans will all now be praying for him to return to Cobham in one piece.
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