Chelsea boss backs record £117m signing of Morgan Rogers

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has publicly backed the club's record-breaking signing of midfielder Morgan Rogers, stating the England international is expected to make an immediate impact and form a potent partnership with Cole Palmer. Alonso made the comments in Sydney on Monday, July 27, 2026, ahead of his first match in charge, a preseason friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers on Tuesday.

Rogers completed a £117 million move from Aston Villa last week, a fee that sets a new record for a British player, surpassing the £116 million Manchester City paid for Elliot Anderson earlier in July. The 23-year-old is not with the squad in Australia, as he is on a post-World Cup break after helping England finish third in the tournament. He is scheduled to report for training at the club's Cobham base on August 9.

Alonso expressed clear enthusiasm for the acquisition, describing it as a "great signing" that addresses a key need. He emphasized Rogers' versatility and potential for a quick adaptation. The manager stated that players who can have an almost instant impact are crucial and expressed confidence that Rogers would not need much time to settle. Alonso specifically highlighted...