Morgan Rogers, a 22-year-old footballer, is making waves in the world of soccer. Known for his regular performances in both the Premier League and the Champions League, Rogers recently etched his name into the history books by scoring his first hat-trick in European competition. His achievements do not end there. In November, he made his senior England debut in a commanding 3-0 victory away in Greece, under the stewardship of then-interim manager Lee Carsley. This young talent has also worked with the current England boss, Thomas Tuchel, at the U21 level and plays alongside Marcus Rashford at Aston Villa.
Rogers, a native of Birmingham, joined Aston Villa from Middlesbrough last February under the guidance of manager Unai Emery. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in helping Villa finish eighth in the Premier League and advance to the top eight in the Champions League league phase. His stellar performances have earned him recognition as a new PUMA athlete and have shattered records, including scoring two goals within five minutes in a Champions League match—a feat unmatched by any other player in the competition's history.
"I'm nowhere near where I want to get to and the landmarks I'm hitting, they're not the only ones I want to hit come the end of my career," – Morgan Rogers
Despite his rapid ascent, Rogers remains humble and focused on his long-term goals. He acknowledges that there is still much to learn and achieve in his career. His dedication to improvement and growth is evident in his words.
"I know I've still got a long way to go. I see it as just the start and it's something to build on. For someone like me who wants to get to the very top of the game, I know that I have to keep putting in the work. I have to keep the same attitude and mentality that I've had throughout." – Morgan Rogers
Playing under Unai Emery at Aston Villa has been a transformative experience for Rogers. Emery's influence has been significant, shaping Rogers’ mindset and approach to the game.
"Every day I'm learning whether I think I am or I'm not, whether it's psychologically or how I think about the game. He's improved me in so many different areas, but mainly about my mindset, about carrying on and doing what I'm good at, even if it doesn't work and just to keep going." – Morgan Rogers
"He's so positive. He might not always come across that way in the way he is, but he always wants the best for everyone and the team and ultimately, if you know that and you buy into it, you're going to get results. There's no way you don't." – Morgan Rogers
Unai Emery himself acknowledges the challenges presented by juggling both Champions League and Premier League commitments. The demands of competing at such high levels require resilience and adaptation.
"The first time juggling the Champions League with the Premier League has been difficult," – Unai Emery
"We found it hard to go again and again and it's something we've got to get used to if we want to achieve what we want and get the club where we want to get to. It's going to be difficult, but we've got numbers in the squad to help us do so." – Unai Emery
Emery emphasizes the need for consistency and balance to achieve their goals—an aspect that has occasionally been elusive for the team.
"It's about finding the right balance and getting that consistency, which we've been lacking at times." – Unai Emery
Rogers' relationship with Emery is grounded in mutual respect and ambition. Rogers sees Emery as an ideal mentor for pushing him towards greater heights.
"He's such a good manager and a perfect person for me to get that next push. The good thing about him is because I've done well, he's not going to stop me. He's probably going to go even harder on me in terms of trying to get me to be better, so I'm looking forward to carrying on working with him for many years to come." – Morgan Rogers
Rogers’ journey from Birmingham to becoming a household name in European football is a testament to his talent and determination. His connection to his hometown remains strong, fueling his drive to succeed both domestically and on international stages. As he continues to break records and earn accolades, his sights are firmly set on reaching new milestones.
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