Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has stated he would not swap Cole Palmer for Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, despite Rogers’ impressive recent form. Rogers has scored two goals in each of his last two games, helping Villa extend their winning streak to 10 matches.
Rogers recently signed a new contract with Villa until 2031, showing his commitment to the club and his appreciation for manager Unai Emery, who has been instrumental in his development. Rogers began his career at West Brom before moving to Manchester City, where he became close friends with Palmer.
Maresca, who coached Rogers at Manchester City, was asked if he would prefer Rogers over Palmer for the upcoming match between Chelsea and Villa. He replied, “No, because I love Cole, and Cole is my player. They are two fantastic players. For sure they are going to be important during the game.”
He added, “But I think both players, they need the other 10 around them to support them and to help them to do the right things. For sure it’s about Morgan, it’s about Cole, but it’s about the team.”
Palmer has struggled with a groin injury this season and has only made eight appearances for Chelsea in all competitions.
However, he has played in the last four Premier League matches, with his playing time carefully managed. Maresca believes Palmer is now ready to play the full 90 minutes against Villa at Stamford Bridge.
“I think he’s ready for 90 minutes,” Maresca said. “The progression for a player is 45, one hour, 70. He already played one hour against, I think, Everton. He played more than 70 against Newcastle. I think the progression is there.”
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