Morgan Rogers has opened up on his decision to join Chelsea ahead of Arsenal, saying the club’s future plans, ambition, and Xabi Alonso’s vision made Stamford Bridge the obvious choice.
The England international completed a British record move from Aston Villa after Chelsea agreed a deal worth a reported £117 million. Arsenal had monitored Rogers throughout the summer, but the Blues ultimately won the race for one of England’s brightest attacking talents.
Speaking after the transfer was confirmed, Rogers admitted that Chelsea’s stature and future plans made the decision an easy one.
“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.”
The 23-year-old also revealed that the vision presented by new head coach Xabi Alonso played a decisive role in his choice.
“The size of the club, the stature, the progression and the way that the club wants to move forward,” Rogers added that his conversations with Alonso convinced him Chelsea was the ideal place to continue his development.
“I’ve had a few conversations with him. 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 express myself. Him being a part of that was a massive factor in me being here.”
Chelsea will now hope Rogers can carry his impressive Aston Villa form to west London as the club looks to challenge for major honours under Alonso.
