In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Chelsea winger Noni Madueke expressed his enthusiasm for teammate Romeo Lavia's abilities and future at the club. The 22-year-old English attacker believes that Lavia possesses the necessary skills and mindset to help elevate Chelsea to new heights in the upcoming season.
Lavia, who joined the Blues from Southampton last August in a £58 million deal, has faced a challenging debut season at Stamford Bridge. The young Belgian midfielder has been limited to just one appearance due to persistent hamstring and thigh injuries, which have hindered his ability to make a significant impact on the team. However, despite these setbacks, Madueke remains confident in his teammate's capacity to overcome adversity and become a key contributor to the squad.
Madueke emphasised the importance of allowing Lavia the time and space to develop at his own pace, considering his youth and the obstacles he has encountered this season. The winger called upon fans to exercise patience with Lavia as he recovers from his injuries and acclimatises to life at Chelsea. Madueke firmly believes that with the proper support and nurturing, Lavia can blossom into an integral component of the team and showcase his elite talent on the pitch.
During the interview, Madueke also touched upon the influence of head coach Mauricio Pochettino on his personal development. The English winger characterised Pochettino as a straightforward and genuine mentor who has played a pivotal role in helping him refine his skills and cultivate a winning mentality. Madueke credited the Argentine coach with being instrumental in his progress since joining Chelsea in January 2023.
As the Premier League season draws to a close, Madueke is optimistic about the team's future under Pochettino's guidance. The Blues have secured four consecutive victories and have the opportunity to finish fifth, concluding a challenging campaign on a positive note. Madueke believes that the team is beginning to gel and that players like Lavia can help propel the squad to greater heights in the coming seasons.
Looking to the future, Madueke is excited about Chelsea's prospects and the potential contributions of young talents like Lavia. With patience, support, and the right mentality, he is confident that the team can achieve great things and compete at the highest level.
As Chelsea prepares for a pre-season tour to the United States this summer, fans will be eager to witness how Lavia and his teammates perform under Pochettino's leadership.
The journey ahead may be challenging, but Madueke's unwavering belief in Lavia's abilities and the team's potential serves as a beacon of hope for Chelsea supporters. Only time will tell if Lavia can live up to the expectations set by his teammate, but one thing is certain: Noni Madueke is ready to stand by his side every step of the way.