Rogers scores but ends on losing side as Arsenal edge Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates

Morgan Rogers gave Chelsea an early lead at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, but goals from Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard condemned Xabi Alonso’s side to a 2-1 Premier League defeat against Arsenal — a result that carried extra edge given Rogers’s well-documented links to the Gunners during the summer transfer window.

Rogers, who joined Chelsea instead of Arsenal, put the visitors ahead in what was a pointed moment given the circumstances. Arsenal’s response was decisive, with Havertz levelling before Odegaard sealed the points and extended the home side’s strong run of form.

“We are disappointed,” Rogers said after the final whistle. “We came here with a job to try to win, and we didn’t manage that, so of course the players and the boys are disappointed. But it’s a long season and it’s a tough place to come.”

The 22-year-old was measured in his assessment of the defeat, crediting Arsenal’s current momentum rather than dwelling on Chelsea’s shortcomings. “They’re in a really good moment right now and feeling really good,” he said. “I think we gave a good account of ourselves. We played well in large parts of the game, created chances and defended well when we had to.”

Rogers was greeted with chants of “you should have signed for a big club” from sections of the Arsenal support after the game, but he showed no sign of regretting his move to Stamford Bridge. “It’s been really good and really positive,” he said. “You see time and time again that managers come in and struggle at the start when they are adapting, but we have done really well to take the manager’s ideas on board.”

He acknowledged that Alonso’s Chelsea project is still in its early stages but expressed confidence in the direction of travel. “There are areas to improve because it is really early days. But seeing the positive signs so early and being encouraged constantly, every day on the training pitch and in games, there is only one way we are going — and that is forward.”

Rogers has made a bright start to his Chelsea career, contributing two goals and an assist since his summer move. The defeat leaves Chelsea with work to do as they continue to bed in under their new manager, though Rogers insists the squad has the quality to improve as the season progresses.