Chelsea head coach, Xabi Alonso, has spoken on the Blues beating Arsenal to the signature of attacker Morgan Rogers.
Alonso spoke ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League game with Arsenal on Sunday, September 6.
Rogers, 24, moved to Stamford Bridge this summer in a reported transfer worth £117 million from Aston Villa, amid interest from Mikel Arteta’s team.
According to Yahoo Sport, he was ‘leaning’ towards a move to the Emirates; however, due to the Gunners’ inability to match Chelsea’s offer, the England international ultimately opted for Stamford Bridge.
Alonso, prior to the clash with the reigning champions at the Emirates, as reported by Football London, said, “When discussing squad planning and making significant decisions, acquiring Morgan was a crucial choice. He is set to be a vital player for the next six to seven years.
“His synergy with the entire team is excellent, and his rapport with his striking partners is remarkable, instilling us with considerable optimism for the future. He appears genuinely happy, which is essential.”
While Arsenal could not secure Rogers, they did sign Christos Tzolis, who provided two assists on his club debut as Arteta’s side triumphed over Manchester City 3-0 in the FA Community Shield at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium last month.
In contrast, Rogers made a scoring debut for the Blues in their 3-2 victory against Fulham and also contributed an assist in the 4-3 home win over Brighton & Hove Albion last week.