By Oscar Woods 
Morgan Rogers Aston Villa nomination turned into reality when the 23 year old attacking midfielder claimed the PFA Young Player of the Year award on August 19, 2025. The England international saw off competition from five other talented nominees after a remarkable campaign that saw him become one of the Premier League’s standout performers.
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Aston Villa Star Earns Recognition From Fellow Professionals
Rogers was announced as one of six nominees for the PFA Young Player of the Year award on June 19, 2025, joining Liam Delap, Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri on the shortlist. The nomination came after Rogers produced consistent performances for Unai Emery’s side throughout the 2024-25 season.
The PFA award, voted on by fellow professional players, holds particular significance in English football. Rogers joined an elite group of previous winners that includes Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Kane, and Gareth Bale.
Record Breaking Numbers Drive Morgan Rogers PFA Success
The attacking midfielder’s statistics tell the story of his extraordinary season. Rogers recorded 14 goals and 16 assists in all competitions during his first full campaign for Villa. His Premier League numbers were equally impressive, as he scored eight goals and supplied 10 assists in league play, ranking joint fourth overall for assists.
Key Performance Highlights:
- 54 total appearances across all competitions
- 30 combined goal contributions
- Hat trick against Celtic in Champions League
- Goal in Champions League quarter final against Paris Saint Germain
- Named Aston Villa Young Player of the Season
On January 29, 2025, Rogers netted his first UEFA Champions League goals by scoring a hat-trick, including two in the first five minutes, in a 4-2 victory over Celtic. This performance demonstrated his ability to deliver on Europe’s biggest stage.
Journey From Middlesbrough to Premier League Stardom
Rogers’ path to success wasn’t straightforward. Born in Halesowen, he came through the West Bromwich Albion academy before signing for Manchester City in 2019. However, he never made a first team appearance for City and spent time on loan at Lincoln City, Bournemouth, and Blackpool.
Rogers joined Middlesbrough in 2023 and impressed enough that Aston Villa signed him for a reported fee of £8 million in February 2024, potentially rising to £15 million with performance related add ons. Manchester City retained a 25% sell on clause, highlighting the value they still saw in the young player.
England Call Up Caps Remarkable Rise
International recognition followed his club form. Rogers was called up to the England senior team for the first time in November 2024 for UEFA Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. He made his senior debut on November 14 as a second half substitute in a 3-0 away victory against Greece.
His England journey continued in 2025 when Rogers scored his first England goal in a 3-0 friendly win over Wales at Wembley on October 9, 2025. The Aston Villa man now finds himself competing with Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer for a starting spot in Thomas Tuchel’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Playing Style Sets Rogers Apart
What makes Rogers special? His physical attributes combined with technical ability create a unique profile. Rogers is known for taking long distance shots and engaging in an aggressive style of attacking play, driving at opponents and breaking defensive lines.
Media outlets have drawn comparisons to some of football’s biggest names. His strength on the ball and dangerous runs have drawn media comparisons to Jamal Musiala, Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
The versatile midfielder primarily operates as a number 10 at Villa Park but can also feature as a winger, striker, or attacking midfielder. This flexibility makes him a valuable asset for manager Unai Emery.
Villa Secure Future With Contract Extension
Recognizing his importance to the team, Aston Villa rewarded Rogers with a contract extension on November 10, 2025, tying him to the club until 2031. This long term deal reflects the club’s belief that their young star will continue developing and contributing to their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.
Fifth Aston Villa Player to Win PFA Young Player Award
Rogers became the fifth Aston Villa player to win the PFA Young Player of the Year award since its inception, joining an exclusive group of Villa legends who earned this recognition. The award cements his status as one of English football’s brightest young talents.
His breakthrough season coincided with Aston Villa’s return to the Champions League, where they reached the quarter finals before falling to eventual tournament winners Paris Saint Germain. Rogers played a key role in that European run, proving he could perform at the highest level of club football.
What’s Next For Morgan Rogers
With the PFA award secured and a long term contract at Villa Park signed, Rogers now sets his sights on bigger targets. Speaking after winning the award, he mentioned that playing at the 2026 World Cup represents his next major goal.
The competition for places in England’s attacking midfield positions remains fierce. Jude Bellingham currently holds the number one spot, but Rogers’ consistent performances for both club and country keep him firmly in contention. Manager Thomas Tuchel will be watching closely as the young Aston Villa star continues his development.
Morgan Rogers Aston Villa nomination and subsequent PFA award win marks a significant milestone in what promises to be an exciting career. From his early days at West Brom to loan spells in the lower leagues, through Middlesbrough and now flourishing at Villa Park, Rogers has shown the determination and talent needed to succeed at the highest level. His story serves as inspiration for young players taking the longer route to the top.