Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia has put an end to persistent social media speculation about his heritage, firmly stating that he is of Congolese descent — not Ghanaian.

The 21-year-old addressed the rumours in an interview with UK-based Ghanaian journalist Rahman Osman following Chelsea's 2-0 win over Manchester United. The interview was reported by Sports World Ghana.

Lavia said he had noticed widespread online chatter linking him to Ghana but was unequivocal in his response.

"I've seen that a lot on social media and it's never true. I don't have any Ghanaian heritage, I am from Congo," he stated.

The clarification draws a line under long-running speculation among Ghanaian football fans, who had expressed interest in Lavia given Ghana's well-known pursuit of players with dual nationality and international eligibility.

From Brussels to Stamford Bridge

Lavia was born on January 6, 2004, in Brussels, Belgium, to Congolese parents. He began his development at Anderlecht before earning a move to Manchester City in 2020.

He subsequently joined Southampton in 2022, where a string of standout displays drew the attention of several top European clubs. Chelsea eventually won the race for his signature in August 2023, securing the midfielder in a deal reported to be worth £58 million.

Though born and raised in Belgium, Lavia has represented the Belgian national team across multiple youth levels and has since earned senior international recognition.

His comments leave no room for ambiguity — Congo, not Ghana, is his heritage.