The breakout season of Morgan Rogers with Aston Villa has taken many by surprise… but not Jude Bellingham. For the Real Madrid star, Rogers is more than just a fellow footballer from England — he’s like family. “It felt like having my older brother around this week,” said Rogers after his debut with the England senior team, emotional about sharing that moment with someone who’s been by his side since their youth days.

Both players have crossed paths since their early clashes between Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion, eventually rising together to represent the Three Lions at the highest level. Their styles even show a striking resemblance — they share position, vision, and grace on the pitch.

The Talent Guardiola Saw… But Didn’t Keep

Morgan Rogers joined the Manchester City academy in 2019 and was part of the youth team that won a historic treble. However, his time under Pep Guardiola was short-lived. While he did train with the first team a few times, he couldn’t break through and had to seek chances elsewhere.

After loan spells at Lincoln City, Bournemouth, and Blackpool, Rogers was sold to Middlesbrough in 2023 for just €1.2 million. It wasn’t until February 2024 that he found his place at Villa Park, with Aston Villa paying around €9.4 million for his services — and the impact was immediate.

Under Unai Emery, Rogers has grown by leaps and bounds. This season, he’s already racked up 14 goals and 13 assists in 48 matches, becoming a key player in the Spanish coach’s plans. “I feel like a more complete player, not just someone who shows flashes. I want to be that player you can rely on every time he steps onto the field,” he recently stated.

Guardiola, meanwhile, didn’t hold back the praise ahead of a decisive clash between City and Aston Villa for a Champions League spot: “He trained with us a few times. You could tell there was something there. But what he’s doing now at Villa… wow. What a player!”

Morgan Rogers has earned his place among the best. And although Manchester City couldn’t keep him, football is now rewarding his perseverance. Alongside Bellingham, he’s dreaming big again — this time wearing the England shirt.