Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has lauded new signing Morgan Rogers as an “ideal” acquisition, predicting an exciting midfield partnership with Cole Palmer.
The England international, who registered an assist for Anthony Gordon in the World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina earlier this month, joined the west London club last week from Aston Villa on a contract extending until 2033.
The reported £117 million transfer fee makes the 24-year-old the most expensive British player in history, a significant investment for a club looking to rebuild after finishing 10th in the Premier League last season.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s pre-season friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers, the 44-year-old manager stated: “In that position, we needed an important player, and I’m sure that there were not many more better options than Morgan. It means a lot for everyone.”
Alonso, who faces the challenge of revitalising Chelsea after a turbulent, trophyless season that saw the club miss out on European football, believes Rogers and Palmer, who are close friends and England teammates, can combine effectively.
“I have a plan. I have an idea. I can see them linking really well,” he remarked.
The Spaniard emphasised the importance of squad balance: “You need to have a good mix, good stability players, and players that can play with more freedom.
“And if we get that balance right, and we get those special players in the right positions, with good control, I think that we will be more competitive with the ball and against the ball.”
Alonso also highlighted Rogers’ versatility as a key asset, both on the pitch and in fostering team cohesion.
“If we get those connections right, those little associations between them that they look for each other and they connect well, I think that it will be a great step forward in the quality of our game,” he concluded.
Chelsea’s Premier League campaign kicks off on 24 August against Fulham at Craven Cottage. Their first home game will be the following week against Brighton & Hove Albion, before they face the daunting task of taking on defending champions Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on 6 September.
