Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has indicated a clear strategy for incorporating new club-record signing Morgan Rogers into the team, specifically envisioning him playing alongside Cole Palmer. Rogers, who joined Chelsea for a reported club-record fee of £117 million from Aston Villa, is expected to make an "instant impact" at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso expressed confidence in Rogers' ability to adapt quickly to the club's system and teammates. "In that position we needed an important player and I'm sure there were not many better options than Morgan Rogers," Alonso stated. "You need players who can have that almost instant impact and I'm sure Morgan won't need much time to adapt to the club, the system and his team-mates."
The midfielder has signed a six-year contract with an option for an additional year. Despite not yet participating in pre-season training, as he is currently on holiday following his participation in the World Cup with England, Alonso believes Rogers will be prepared.
Alonso suggested that Rogers and Palmer, who describe each other as close friends, could form a strong partnership on the field. "I have a plan. I have an idea. I can see them linking really well," Alonso said of the pair. "We need to have a good mix. If we get that balance right and those special players in the right positions, with good control, then we will be more competitive with and without the ball."