According to a report by The Athletic on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is becoming increasingly concerned about the team's heavy reliance on Morgan Rogers, with Jamie Gittens' extended injury absence leaving the Spaniard short of attacking alternatives.

Rogers has featured more than any other Chelsea player this season, making Gittens' return particularly important as the Blues prepare for a demanding schedule across different competitions.

The England international has made an impressive start to his Chelsea career following his £117 million transfer from Aston Villa during the summer window, quickly establishing himself as one of the most influential players in Alonso's squad.

The 23-year-old has contributed six goals and four assists in 11 matches across all competitions, while also developing effective attacking partnerships with Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto.

His performances have played an important role in Chelsea's attacking success this season, but the amount of football he has played is beginning to raise concerns about fatigue and the possibility of an injury setback.

Rogers has accumulated 996 minutes across 12 appearances, making him Chelsea's most-used player this campaign. Palmer follows closely with 926 minutes, while Maxence Lacroix has recorded 859 minutes. Josh Acheampong, Neto and Levi Colwill complete the club's top six players in terms of playing time.

The concern is further highlighted by Rogers' workload last season, when he made 71 appearances for club and country, more than any other player across Europe's top five leagues.

Chelsea had expected Gittens to provide additional competition and cover on the left side of their attack after completing a £48.5 million move from Borussia Dortmund.

The 20-year-old is considered a suitable alternative to Rogers in that position because he prefers cutting inside from the left flank onto his stronger right foot, offering a similar attacking approach.

However, Gittens has been unavailable for the past six weeks after picking up an ankle injury while representing England's Under-21 team. Before suffering the setback, he had managed just 55 minutes of football under Alonso.

His prolonged absence has significantly reduced Chelsea's natural options in that attacking position, particularly because Neto, Estevao Willian, Geovany Quenda and Palmer are generally more comfortable operating from the right wing.

Although Gittens has displayed promising qualities since arriving at Stamford Bridge, he is yet to establish himself as a regular member of the starting lineup.

His return could therefore provide a timely boost for Chelsea, giving Alonso greater flexibility in his attacking selections while ensuring Rogers does not have to carry such a heavy workload throughout the season.

The Blues will be hoping the young winger makes a full recovery soon, as his availability could prove crucial in maintaining their attacking quality and preventing excessive demands from being placed on one of their most important players.