Chelsea have confirmed that Morgan Rogers will wear the No.17 shirt following his £117million arrival from Aston Villa. The England international has taken the same number he wore during this summer’s World Cup.
The club announced Rogers’ squad number as he prepares to join Xabi Alonso’s first-team group. He signed a seven-year contract until 2033 after Chelsea won the race for one of the Premier League’s leading young attackers.
Chelsea’s official announcement also highlighted several notable former owners of the shirt. Eden Hazard initially wore No.17 at Stamford Bridge before switching to No.10, while Pedro and Mateo Kovacic later took the number.
Rogers wore No.27 at Aston Villa but used No.17 while representing England at the World Cup. He helped Thomas Tuchel’s side finish third before completing his British-record move to west London.
Morgan Rogers could make Chelsea debut in Australia
Rogers could make his first Chelsea appearance when Alonso’s side face Western Sydney Wanderers on Tuesday, 28 July. The Blues then play Tottenham in Sydney before travelling to Hong Kong for a friendly against Juventus.
His involvement may depend on how Alonso manages his workload following the World Cup. Rogers only recently returned from international duty and may require additional recovery time before featuring.
ReadChelsea covered Chelsea’s official £117million announcement after the attacker chose Stamford Bridge ahead of Arsenal. Alonso’s plan to use him from the left reportedly played an important role in that decision.
Rogers can also play centrally or behind the striker. However, his initial role should allow Cole Palmer to continue operating as Chelsea’s main central creator.
The No.17 shirt comes with notable Chelsea history. Rogers will now look to create his own after becoming Alonso’s most expensive summer signing.
