Arsenal fans mocked Morgan Rogers after the Chelsea forward was substituted during their side’s 2-1 Premier League victory at the Emirates on Sunday.
Rogers had given Chelsea an early lead, striking after just 77 seconds against the club who had tried to sign him during the summer transfer window. Kai Havertz levelled for Arsenal before half-time, with Martin Ødegaard completing the comeback shortly after the interval.
As Rogers made his way off the pitch, home supporters turned their attention to the transfer decision that had taken him to west London. They sang: “You should have signed for a big club.”
Arsenal fans target Morgan Rogers after Chelsea defeat
The taunt referred to Arsenal’s reported interest in Rogers before Chelsea secured his signature. The England international joined the Blues from Aston Villa in a deal worth £117 million and described Chelsea as “the biggest club in London” after completing the move.
His first appearance against Arsenal began in ideal fashion, with Rogers reacting quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the area before sending a low finish beyond David Raya.
Arsenal responded strongly, however, and Havertz restored parity with a finish from outside the box. Ødegaard then found the net early in the second half to give the champions all three points in a closely contested London derby.
Rogers remained one of Chelsea’s more influential attacking players despite the defeat, and manager Xabi Alonso’s side created opportunities to equalise late on. David Raya made a series of important saves to preserve Arsenal’s advantage.
The result ended Chelsea’s winning start to the season, while Arsenal maintained their perfect record. Chelsea remain among the early contenders under Alonso, but will now look to respond in their upcoming fixtures.
