Chelsea’s Bold Move: Replacing Lavia with Amougou
Chelsea recently made a notable change to their Europa Conference League squad by removing Roméo Lavia and replacing him with their latest signing, Mathis Amougou. This decision alone speaks volumes about how highly the club rates the young French-Cameroonian midfielder. Signed from Saint-Étienne for €15 million on transfer deadline day, Amougou is already generating buzz.
A Rising Star from a Footballing Family
Amougou was born into a footballing family, with three brothers who also play the sport. Interestingly, he has a twin brother, drawing comparisons to Chelsea acquiring their own version of the Timber twins. His journey to professional football took him to Saint-Étienne at just 15, where he quickly rose through the ranks and debuted for the senior team just days before turning 18.
Impressive Start to His Professional Career
Amougou’s performances in the 2024-25 season solidified his reputation as a promising talent. Playing 17 out of 18 available games for Saint-Étienne, he displayed composure and versatility in midfield. His ability to function as both a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box player makes him a valuable asset.
Strengths and Playing Style
The 19-year-old excels as a hybrid between a number 6 and a number 8. His defensive contributions are commendable, with an average of 0.7 interceptions and 1.2 tackles per game in Ligue 1. Additionally, he was dribbled past only 0.5 times per match, figures that compare favorably to established Premier League midfielders like Declan Rice.
Beyond his defensive abilities, Amougou has solid passing skills, boasting a pass completion rate of 78%, which rises to 87% in his own half. While he isn’t a primary playmaker, he efficiently recycles possession and supports his team’s build-up play. His ball-carrying ability further aids in progressing play from midfield.
Chelsea’s Long-Term Vision
Although Amougou is not expected to slot into Chelsea’s starting XI immediately, he is viewed as an ideal backup for Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo. Chelsea’s midfield depth took a hit with the departures of Casadei, Chukwuemeka, Renato Veiga, and João Félix, while Lavia’s persistent injury issues have left the squad short-handed. Signing Amougou provides both immediate squad depth and a long-term investment.
Chelsea’s ownership under BlueCo has consistently prioritized young talents on long-term contracts, either developing them into key players or selling them for profit. Amougou fits perfectly into this strategy, and his learning curve alongside established midfielders is expected to accelerate his development.
Adjusting to the Premier League
Settling into English football can be challenging, but Amougou won’t be alone at Stamford Bridge. With fellow French-speaking players like Benoît Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto, and Christopher Nkunku in the squad, his adaptation process should be smoother.
Initial training sessions suggest he is already building chemistry with his teammates, particularly Caicedo. Moreover, his availability alone makes him a more reliable backup than Lavia, whose injury woes have kept him sidelined for most of his Chelsea tenure.
What Lies Ahead for Amougou?
While Amougou’s first six months in England will primarily be about adaptation, expectations will rise from the 2025-26 season onward. Will Chelsea give him the time and opportunity to develop, or will he follow the familiar path of young signings being loaned out?
What do you think? Will Mathis Amougou make a lasting impact at Chelsea? Share your thoughts, and stay tuned for more updates on this promising young talent.
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