Morgan Rogers has described Chelsea as 'the biggest club in London' after his £117 million move from Aston Villa was completed, following Arsenal's failure to secure his signature. The 23-year-old England international was formally presented on Tuesday evening after undergoing a medical examination with his new club.
Rogers' admiration for Chelsea
After the transfer was confirmed, Rogers said: "I'm so excited. For me, Chelsea are the biggest club in London and a club I've always admired since I was a kid." He added: "I'm really excited about the project with the new manager, the players we've got and where the club is heading. That's why I'm here and I can't wait to get started."
Rogers had been touted for a potential transfer to Arsenal following his impressive performances for Villa, but Chelsea swooped in to complete the acquisition. His arrival comes after an exceptional campaign during which he netted 14 goals for Villa and contributed to the club's Europa League triumph, according to the Mirror.
Xabi Alonso's influence
Discussing his decision to sign for the Blues, Rogers acknowledged that incoming manager Xabi Alonso played a significant role. He said: "I've had a few conversations with him and I think it's important for me to be here that I need to understand what the manager's like, how he is and how he wants to operate."
Rogers added: "It very much fits with the way I see the game, the way I want to play, and the way I want to be me, and be free and express myself. Him being a part of that was a massive factor in me being here."
Reunion with Cole Palmer
Rogers will also be reuniting with his childhood friend Cole Palmer at Stamford Bridge, having grown up alongside one another at Manchester City. Reflecting on the reunion, he said: "I've known Cole since I was about 14, first in the England [youth] teams and then when we were both at Man City together. We've been speaking about this for a while; we always would love to have played together. So, for it to happen, we're both excited."
He continued: "He's non-stop ringing my phone, texting me, and I can't wait. I think that's probably the most special thing, playing with one of your best friends and being around him every day. It's something I'm really excited about."
