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Chelsea Sweating Over Roméo Lavia Injury After Qarabag Draw in Champions League
Chelsea’s frustrating night in Azerbaijan ended not only with two dropped points but also a worrying new injury concern for Roméo Lavia, who could be facing yet another spell on the sidelines.
The Blues’ 2-2 draw against Qarabag was a rollercoaster affair. Enzo Maresca’s men started brightly, taking the lead through teenage sensation Estevao after dominating possession and dictating the tempo early on. But just before half-time, Qarabag struck twice in quick succession — first from open play, then from the penalty spot — to leave Chelsea stunned and trailing 2-1 at the break.
Despite defensive lapses and a lack of control in midfield, Chelsea found a lifeline through Alejandro Garnacho, who came off the bench to net the equaliser minutes into the second half. The Argentine also came close to winning it late on, but the Qarabag goalkeeper stood firm, ensuring the Azerbaijani side claimed a famous result.
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It was another mixed evening for Maresca’s team — encouraging in flashes, but riddled with familiar issues. Reports suggest Chelsea’s recruitment team is already prioritising a centre-back signing in January after another shaky display at the back.
However, the night’s biggest concern came from the sight of Roméo Lavia limping off just five minutes in with what appeared to be a quadricep injury.
“We feel a shame for him, especially for him,” Maresca said post-match. “He’s not able to be fit for a long, long period. It’s too early to understand what kind of injury, but I think it’s his quad.”
Lavia, who had just regained fitness after a long absence, reacted in visible frustration, throwing a water bottle as he headed down the tunnel. The 21-year-old midfielder’s Chelsea career has been plagued by injuries since his £58 million move from Southampton in 2023. He managed just 32 minutes of Premier League action last season, sidelined for more than 220 days with ankle and hamstring problems.
Maresca has often praised Lavia’s ability and potential, saying earlier this year:
“When he is fit, he is one of the best midfielders. He can defend very well, he can attack, he can break the line and pass between the lines. For us, it’s like Reece James — both top players.”
For Chelsea’s hierarchy and BlueCo, Lavia’s repeated setbacks may soon force difficult discussions about player fitness management and squad planning.
As Chelsea prepare for their next Champions League fixture, all eyes will be on the medical report — and whether one of their most talented young midfielders can finally catch a break.
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