Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly targeting Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers to address the team's over-reliance on the right flank and bolster their attacking options. The Gunners' attack has shown a significant imbalance, with a disproportionate amount of play and chance creation funneling through Bukayo Saka on the right side.
Last season, over 40 percent of Arsenal's touches in the attacking third occurred on the right, and heatmaps illustrate a concentration of chance creation on that flank. This predictability has been a limiting factor, despite the team's overall success. Martin Odegaard, the team's captain and a key creator, also tends to drift into the right channel to combine with Saka and right-sided defenders.
To counter this, Arteta is keen on acquiring Rogers, who could provide a much-needed threat from the left. Current options Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have not consistently reached the same level of impact as Saka. Martinelli's goal output was limited last season, while Trossard, though effective, often came off the bench.
Rogers, conversely, delivered 10 goals and six assists for Aston Villa in the league last season, contributing significantly to their Champions League qualification. He also added three goals and five assists in Villa's Europa League campaign. His six open-play assists in the league were among the best in the division. A key attribute is his ability to drive at defenders with pace, strength, and ball security, a trait likened to Jonah Lomu by some observers. This capability was evident when he frequently bypassed Arsenal midfielders in a recent encounter.
Rogers' effectiveness in carrying the ball forward more than five meters before taking a shot was comparable to Saka's, with several resulting in goals. Arsenal's attack, which relies on few players for impactful carries, could benefit from Rogers' ability to break down defenses. He also possesses versatility, able to play as a No. 10, a winger, or a striker, a quality Arteta values. His tendency to drift inside could also enhance Arsenal's creativity in central areas on the left flank.
Furthermore, Rogers' availability is a significant advantage. He played over 3,285 league minutes last season, more than any other forward except Jarrod Bowen and more than any Arsenal player. His aggressive style in regaining possession in the final third also aligns with Arteta's tactical demands. Rogers also outperformed his expected goals (xG) significantly, scoring 3.22 more goals than his xG suggested, a performance that surpasses that of Saka, Martinelli, and Trossard. His ability to score from distance, with three goals from outside the box last season, could be crucial against teams employing deep defensive blocks.
However, there are potential challenges. Rogers' dribble success rate is lower than Arsenal's primary wingers, and he is known for his risk-taking style, which contrasts with Arteta's preference for structure and control. Rogers himself has stated his game is not about playing it safe. Arteta may need to accept some frustration with Rogers' occasional loss of possession in exchange for his forward threat. The financial aspect of the transfer is also a consideration, with reports suggesting Aston Villa may demand a fee exceeding £100 million.