Lavia: I feel at my best since joining Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Roméo Lavia has confirmed that he feels in his best form since joining the London club, noting that the work he is doing with the coaching and medical staff has contributed to his physical readiness and delivering impressive performances.

Roméo Lavia made his first full match appearance for Chelsea during the clash with Liverpool, which ended in a penalty shootout loss for his team on Wednesday. He repeated the feat in the match against Manchester United on Saturday, which ended with Chelsea winning by two goals to nil.

The Belgian midfielder delivered an impressive defensive performance against Manchester United, executing 14 ball recoveries, winning seven ground duels, alongside five defensive interventions, and a total of nine defensive contributions.

Lavia said in statements to the BBC: "I think it can be said that I feel at my best, the work we are doing with everyone at the club is going well so far. It's about continuing to work, and I hope the situation continues like this."

He added: "As long as I feel good, I will do everything I can to help the team achieve such results. I feel good, and that's why I am very happy with my performance."

Roméo Lavia has received praise from his teammate Cole Palmer, who described his performance against Manchester United as one of his best, emphasizing that many do not realize how good the Belgian player is.

Roméo Lavia has revealed the important moral role played by his compatriot Eden Hazard, the former Chelsea star, who has been in constant contact with him since he joined the club. Hazard was present in the stands at Stamford Bridge to watch the match against Manchester United.

Lavia spoke about his relationship with Hazard: "Yes, he is a very important figure for me, and we talk a lot, so it was great to see him here. I can see in his eyes that he is happy for me and proud of me, and that gives me extra motivation."

Chelsea's manager explained that he learned of Roméo Lavia's starting participation late the night before the match, due to Jordan Henderson's illness, praising the Belgian midfielder's performance and affirming that he deserves significant recognition.