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By Martin Graham | 30th Jan 2025
Morgan Rogers once again found himself in the spotlight on Wednesday night, delivering a sensational performance in Aston Villa’s 4-2 victory over Celtic. The 22-year-old forward not only netted his first career hat-trick, but he also set a new Champions League record by scoring twice within the opening five minutes of the match.
His remarkable display secured Villa’s automatic qualification for the tournament’s last 16, further establishing his growing reputation. Former Villa and Celtic midfielder Stiliyan Petrov, speaking to TNT Sports, described Rogers as “a joy to watch,” while ex-Celtic striker Chris Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live that the young star was “unplayable at times.”
This latest achievement marks a significant milestone in Rogers’ career, which has seen a rapid rise over the past year. Only last season, he was waiting for his opportunity on Middlesbrough’s bench in the Championship. Now, he is a key player in Villa’s European campaign.
A long journey to the top
Despite his young age, Rogers has already had a career filled with different experiences. He began his footballing journey at West Bromwich Albion, joining their academy at just nine years old and making his senior debut at 16. His talent quickly caught the eye of Manchester City, who brought him into their ranks.
However, first-team opportunities were limited, and he was sent out on loan to gain experience. Stints at Lincoln City, Bournemouth, and Blackpool allowed him to develop as a player, an experience he now values highly.
“It was tough at times, but I always wanted to play as much as possible,” Rogers explained to Football Focus. “Looking back, those experiences shaped me into the player I am today. I wouldn’t change anything.”
His next move came in July 2023 when he joined Middlesbrough in a deal worth £1.5m. Though his start at the Riverside was mixed, his potential was undeniable. Just seven months later, Aston Villa made a bold move, securing his services for £8m plus add-ons.
“Leaving Middlesbrough wasn’t easy because I had built strong connections with the team and staff,” Rogers admitted. “But when a club like Villa comes in, especially as someone from Birmingham, it’s an opportunity you can’t turn down.”
Flourishing under Unai Emery
Since arriving at Villa Park, Rogers has become a key figure in the squad. He played a crucial role in helping the club secure a fourth-place Premier League finish last season and has since started 30 of their 31 games across both league and European competition.
A key factor behind his impressive development has been working with manager Unai Emery, who led Villa to the top four. Rogers has praised the Spanish coach’s meticulous approach and high expectations.
“He is so intense and focuses on details others might overlook,” Rogers said. “At first, you might not see why he emphasizes certain things, but over time, you understand. He’s constantly pushing us to improve, and I’ve learned a lot from him.”
The winger credits Emery with giving him the confidence to express himself on the pitch. “He wants me to take risks, drive forward with the ball, and use my strength. He believes in me, and that trust means everything. But he also demands more from me every single day.”
England ambitions and the road ahead
Rogers’ rise has not gone unnoticed at the international level. After representing England at the Under-21 level, he received his first senior call-up in November, earning minutes off the bench in Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
With England now preparing for their World Cup qualifying campaign under new manager Thomas Tuchel, Rogers remains hopeful of securing a regular place in the squad.
“Playing for England at a major tournament is something I dream about,” he said. “I know how many top players are competing for spots, but I just have to keep performing and pushing for a place.”
Despite the competition, he remains level-headed. “If I don’t get selected, I won’t be disheartened. It’s about continuing to improve and showing what I can do. Seeing others from the youth teams making an impact for England is inspiring and shows that the pathway is there.”
With his rapid progress, record-breaking performances, and an exciting future ahead, Morgan Rogers is proving to be one of the most promising young talents in English football.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
