Morgan Rogers: Aston Villa’s Breakout Leader in 2025/26

The Premier League isn’t just talking about the traditional "Big Six", but rather they’re talking about Aston Villa and their irrepressible talisman, Morgan Rogers. Following a sensational match-winning brace against Manchester United, Rogers has officially transitioned from a promising talent into one of the most dominant forces in European football.

The Englishman hasn't just entered the conversation for the best central attacking midfielder in England; he is arguably leading it. Rodgers has emerged as the face of an Aston Villa side aiming for a first league title since 1981.

🔥 The Man of the Moment: Dismantling Manchester United

In Villa’s high-stakes 2–1 victory over Manchester United on December 21, Rogers was unstoppable. He scored a sensational brace, both goals coming from his trademark powerful runs and finishing them off with sensational strikes. He became the first Villa player to score 2+ goals in back-to-back Premier League games since club legend Dion Dublin in November 1998. Rodgers has now joined both Phil Foden and Danny Welbeck as the leading English goal scorers in the league, with 7 goals each. Rodgers has mustered this goal tally along with 3 assists in 17 appearances, a remarkable achievement for a youngster in his position.

📈 Villa’s Historic 10-Game Streak

Rogers is the engine behind Villa’s resurgence. The win over United extended their winning streak to 10 matches in all competitions, the club’s best run of form since 1914, placing them right on Arsenal and Manchester City's tails. Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa now sits 3rd in the Premier League, just three points behind leaders Arsenal heading into the Christmas fixtures. Emery has called Rogers the team’s “protagonist”, praising his work ethic, tactical intelligence, and professional evolution. If Villa aim to maintain this title charge, Morgan Rodgers is the key to going all the way.

• Tactical Versatility: Operating in an advanced role, he blends technical ability with raw physicality. He currently sits in the top 25% of Premier League players for expected assists and averages around 1 key pass per game.

  
  

• Historical Context: His form is the driving force behind Villa’s remarkable 10-game winning streak in all competitions, which is the club's best run since 1914.

  
  

• Long-Term Faith: In November 2025, Rogers committed his future to the club by signing a massive contract extension that keeps him at Villa Park until 2031.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 The International Ascent

Rogers' club form has made him a vital cog in Thomas Tuchel’s new-look England setup. He has already earned 12 senior caps, scoring his first international goal in a 3-0 win over Wales in October.

The competition for England's number 10 role is fierce, with superstars like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer vying for the spot. Rogers offers a unique profile. His ability to drift to the left and isolate defenders, combined with his 6'2" frame, makes him a "nightmare to mark," as noted during his dominance over United's Leny Yoro.

Thomas Tuchel has trusted Morgan Rodgers throughout the World Cup qualifying campaign. He has obtained 12 appearances for the Three Lions so far. He has managed to obtain 10 direct goal contributions during his appearances for England, making him a crucial element of their attack during the World Cup qualifying campaign.

🔮 What’s Next for Morgan Rodgers?

From a shrewd £8m signing from Middlesbrough, Rogers has transformed into a player valued at ten times that amount, drawing attention from top clubs across Europe.

As Villa prepares for a gruelling festive schedule, including Chelsea (Dec 27) and Arsenal (Dec 30), all eyes will be on the Halesowen-born star to see if he can carry this “protagonist” energy into 2026, potentially cementing himself as one of the Premier League’s and England's most influential young talents.

🏆 The Verdict: A Title Charge Led by Rogers

With Villa sitting in 3rd place with 36 points, just three points adrift of leaders Arsenal, the conversation has shifted from "top four" to "title race." Morgan Rogers is no longer just a supporting act; he is the lead character in a story that could see Aston Villa claim their first English title since 1981. Morgan Rogers’ 2025/26 season is a masterclass in growth, resilience, and impact. He is rapidly emerging as one of the brightest talents in English football.