The rise of Morgan Rogers and his case for the 2026 World Cup

Morgan Rogers has become one of the most talked-about young players in the Premier League. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder for Aston Villa has blended goals, creativity and tactical versatility into a breakout season – form that has not only caught the attention of England selectors but has also made him a popular talking point across mainstream coverage and discussion on any licensed sports wagering platform ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
A breakout season so far
Rogers has been key to Villa’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign, scoring seven goals and providing three assists in 17 appearances at the time of writing. He’s produced match-winning performances, including a brace against Manchester United that helped Villa edge a 2-1 win and maintain a long unbeaten run.
Those numbers don’t just show volume – they show impact. He’s directly influencing results in big fixtures, contributing both goals and creative runs that stretch defences.
Rogers’ rise feels even more striking given his path into senior football. He developed at West Bromwich Albion’s academy before signing for Manchester City in August 2019, but never made a first-team appearance. He’s since established himself as one of the Premier League’s rising stars through his performances at Villa.
Style of play
What makes Rogers stand out is the assertiveness of his game. He plays with intent, constantly looking to drive forward with the ball and commit defenders rather than recycling possession safely. His ability to carry the ball through midfield and break defensive lines has become a major weapon for Aston Villa, especially against teams that sit deep.
Rogers is also a real goal threat. He’s comfortable shooting from distance, confident attacking the box late and composed enough to finish chances under pressure. That balance between power and technique makes him difficult to defend against – opponents can’t afford to give him space in central areas.
It’s not just about what he does on the ball, either. Rogers’ work rate and tactical awareness have improved noticeably this season. He tracks back when needed, presses intelligently and shows maturity in his decision-making that you don’t always see in younger attacking players.
England’s international outlook and where he fits
Rogers is already capped for the England national squad, featuring 12 times and scoring his first international goal in October 2025 against Wales.
His club form has put him on England’s radar for the 2026 World Cup, and he now looks like a realistic option rather than a fringe name. His recent performances have sparked discussion about how quickly he should become part of the senior setup, with England already looking ahead to the tournament.
A big part of his appeal is how well his profile fits modern international football. Rogers offers ball-carrying, goal threat and positional flexibility in one package. He can operate centrally, drift wide or push into advanced areas depending on the game, giving England useful tactical options in tournament football where adaptability is often key.
There’s also a sense that his style complements England’s established attackers rather than competing directly with them. While players like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer bring control and technical creativity, Rogers adds a more direct, physical edge.
He’s also beginning to show he can deliver in high-pressure moments. His influence in big Premier League fixtures suggests he has the temperament required for international tournaments, where decisive actions often matter more than sustained dominance.
Morgan Rogers’ 2025/26 season has transformed him from a promising young talent into a contender for England’s 2026 World Cup squad. With regular goals, consistent creative output and the ability to influence games at the highest level, his inclusion isn’t just justified – it’s becoming something many pundits now expect if he continues this form.
Read More Trendy Mag

