Morgan Rogers Sends Emotional 10-Word Message as Aston Villa Exit Confirmed

BIRMINGHAM – Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers has bid an emotional farewell to the club after his £80 million transfer exit was officially confirmed on January 15, 2026. The 23-year-old Englishman, who joined Villa from Middlesbrough in February 2024 for £8-15 million, posted a heartfelt 10-word message on social media: "Thank you Villa for everything. Forever grateful. Time for new chapters."[1][2]

Rogers leaves after a stellar tenure, scoring 25 goals in 99 appearances under Unai Emery. In the 2025/26 season alone, he netted eight goals and provided six assists in 29 games across all competitions, earning a spot in the England squad where he has 12 caps and his first international goal against Wales.[1][2][4] His unique profile—elite finishing (0.34 non-penalty goals per 90, 86th percentile), powerful ball-carrying, and transitional threat—redefined Villa's attack, outperforming expected goals by +0.17 per 90 (94th percentile).[4]

Despite a contract until 2031, Villa sanctioned the sale to a Premier League powerhouse amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Real Madrid, and even Manchester United. Former Villa striker Stan Collymore predicted the move, noting Rogers' ambition for trophies: "FA Cup because I want to win one... he'll go where he gets the best chance."[1][2] Collymore worried Rogers wouldn't stay for big offers, citing his history of loan moves from Manchester City and Championship stint.

Rogers' departure caps a transformative era, with fans praising his impact since arriving. "He's been immense," said Emery. The fee protects Villa's asset while funding squad rebuilds. Speculation links the versatile attacker—excelling as a No.10 rivaling Jude Bellingham internationally—to trophy-chasing giants.[2][4][5]

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