Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso praised Romeo Lavia after the midfielder finished his first full 90-minute match in more than two years. The 22-year-old was one of just four Chelsea players to remain on the pitch for the entire pre-season friendly against AC Milan at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Lavia proved essential in the midfield as Chelsea defeated Ruben Amorim’s squad. Joao Pedro initiated the scoring with a header right before the break. He quickly added a second goal early in the second half, followed by a long-range volley from Moises Caicedo that secured the win.
Though Lavia did not find the net himself, his ability to dictate play and break up Milan’s attacks was crucial. He completed the full duration alongside teammates Robert Sanchez, Josh Acheampong, and Marco Palestra. This appearance was Lavia’s first full game since an August 2024 friendly against Manchester City.
Speaking with club media, Alonso expressed his satisfaction with Lavia’s performance. The manager noted that while Lavia was feeling tired, he encouraged him to push through the final minutes. Alonso remarked that seeing the player finish the full game successfully was a positive step forward.
