Morgan Rogers has arrived at Stamford Bridge from Aston Villa in a deal worth £117m, and Xabi Alonso appears ready to deploy him alongside Cole Palmer from the first whistle.
The Spain international seems to have already formulated a strategy should Enzo Fernandez depart. The Chelsea vice-captain, whose future has been the subject of speculation for some time, continues to be mentioned in connection with a switch to Manchester City as Enzo Maresca seeks to reinforce his midfield options.
football.london reports that despite the Cityzens failing to meet the Friday 5pm deadline for a £120m move, they remain keen on completing the transfer. Sources at Stamford Bridge are reportedly unconcerned and would be content to retain the Argentine international for another campaign.
Alonso has publicly stated his preference to keep Fernandez, though it remains to be seen whether the 25-year-old will stay. Should he depart before the window shuts at 11pm on Tuesday September 1, the new Chelsea head coach appears to have an alternative approach ready.
Addressing Men In Blazers recently, Alonso discussed his vision for a lineup featuring both Rogers and Palmer. He explained that both players can operate as number tens, number eights, or wide attackers. He emphasised that the focus is not on a single position but on dynamism, and that the pair understand each other and link up effectively.
Regarding Palmer’s role in carrying responsibility in the attacking third, Alonso noted the importance of confidence, knowing the system functions well, enjoying the game, and understanding one’s duties. He described Palmer as an exceptional talent and stressed that a successful Chelsea requires a top-quality Palmer. This demands a robust structure stable enough to get the best out of him in optimal situations, after which he will deliver the goods.
Should Manchester City succeed in prising Fernandez away before the deadline, Rogers and Palmer will need to take on significant attacking duties. Statistics from BOYLE Sports reveal that the former Villa standout completed 223 progressive carries in last season’s Premier League, averaging 6.1 per 90 minutes, along with five touches in the opposition area per 90.
The new Chelsea signing demonstrated a more aggressive presence inside the penalty box than the unsettled vice-captain, who managed just 2.9. While there is a trade-off, with Rogers posting a pass completion rate of 74.6 per cent compared to Fernandez’s 86 per cent, Rogers contributed significantly more goals and assists.
Comparing Rogers, Palmer, and Fernandez
Rogers typically operated slightly higher up the pitch, occasionally on the left flank, while Fernandez occupied an advanced eight role under Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Regardless of position, results speak for themselves.
Even if Fernandez remains at Chelsea, Alonso is likely to deploy him deeper in a double pivot rather than in the two inside-forward positions flanking Joao Pedro, where the two English internationals will take charge of creative output.
Alonso attracted by Rogers adaptability
Upon securing Rogers’ signature, Alonso labelled him an important player capable of fulfilling up to four roles. Speaking to CFC+ last month, the manager hinted that Rogers’ arrival could influence existing players’ responsibilities.
He stated it was an excellent acquisition and that the position required a significant player, with few superior alternatives to Rogers. He noted the signing holds importance for everyone and for those already at the club. One of Rogers’ standout attributes is his adaptability. He thrives in the space behind the striker near the number ten, but has also featured on the right, despite being more comfortable cutting in from the left.