To reward and retain rising star Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa has opened discussions to extend his contract and adjust his salary, bringing it in line with his contributions to the team. Rogers has made a significant impact at Villa Park, establishing himself as a key player under Manager Unai Emery. Now, the club aims to recognize his elevated role within the squad by offering a pay rise, following a similar move made earlier in the month to secure another young talent, Jhon Durán.
Rogers, 22, signed a 5.5-year contract upon arrival at Aston Villa for a transfer fee of £15 million. In less than a year, his performances have made a compelling case for an improved deal. The young forward has played 28 games, notching five goals and four assists, achievements that have spurred interest in a possible England senior team call-up. Emery noted his surprise that Rogers was only selected for the England U21, pointing out his consistent, high-level performances in the Premier League.
Villa’s Youth Investment Strategy
Aston Villa has focused on acquiring promising young players, and Rogers’ contract renewal is the latest move in this approach. Durán, another player brought in under this strategy, signed a two-year extension to extend his stay until 2030. Both players initially joined on lower salaries, in line with their age and experience levels. However, Villa’s management is now keen to adjust Rogers’ wages to reflect his increasing contributions and ensure he remains committed to the club long-term.
This approach of investing in youth has proven fruitful for Villa. “He’s an exceptionally talented player,” Emery commented, recognizing Rogers’ strong connection to the club. Emery added that the team is actively working to fine-tune Rogers’ tactical understanding and help him find his ideal position on the pitch. “He’s got the talent, and that’s what counts the most,” Emery emphasized, pointing to Rogers’ strong technical skills and potential for further growth.
Season Performance and Key Contributions
This season, Rogers has showcased his versatility and ability to influence games, scoring two goals and contributing three assists across 12 appearances in all competitions. In the Premier League, he has managed two goals and two assists in nine matches while in the UEFA Champions League, he has delivered one assist in three outings.
Although he did not feature in Aston Villa’s Carabao Cup fixtures against Wycombe and Crystal Palace, his impact in league and European games has been substantial. Starting in all nine of Villa’s Premier League matches, Rogers has proven his reliability and consistency. His first league goal came in a 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town at Portman Road, following an earlier brace of assists that helped Villa secure a 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. More recently, Rogers netted his second league goal in a commanding 3-1 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage, reaffirming his importance to Emery’s side.
Morgan Rogers’ Potential and Praise from Teammates
The spotlight on Rogers’ development has not been lost on his teammates either. Ollie Watkins, Villa’s seasoned striker, has seen first-hand the young forward’s talent and drive. “Morgan has got the world at his feet,” Watkins shared, praising his work ethic and confidence in taking on defenders.
However, he added with a chuckle, “I don’t want to praise him too much and make his head too big, but he has all the attributes to go far.” Since joining Aston Villa, Morgan Rogers has embraced the challenge of playing for a club with high expectations. Emery’s faith in Rogers is evident from his regular starts in Premier League and Champions League matches and the manager has been eager to support his progress on and off the pitch.
An Eye On the England Senior Team
Rogers’ continued rise in form has fueled speculation about an England senior team debut. With his recent displays, there is a growing belief that a national call-up may be on the horizon. Emery expressed surprise that Rogers has not yet broken into the senior squad, given his exceptional form, hinting that it may only be a matter of time before he receives the nod.
Rogers has contributed significantly to Aston Villa’s current standing in both domestic and international competitions. In the Champions League, he has been an ever-present figure in the starting lineup for all three group-stage matches, though he was rested for the Carabao Cup games.
The Road Ahead For Rogers and Villa
Aston Villa’s decision to open contract negotiations with Rogers reflects their commitment to rewarding talent and building a team around young, high-potential players. The contract extension signed by Durán signals a blueprint for Villa’s future, and Rogers could be the next player to benefit from this philosophy. With his skill set and focus, Rogers represents an important asset to Aston Villa’s ambitions, both in the league and in Europe.
The ongoing talks signify a promising partnership between the player and the club. For Aston Villa, securing Rogers on an improved contract would be a strategic move to protect their investment and signal their ambition to compete at the highest level. For Rogers, the contract extension represents both a reward for his achievements and an opportunity to continue growing within a club that values his contributions.
For More Great Content
Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips and sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play. Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out—explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
