Chelsea’s growing dependence on Morgan Rogers is a concern for manager Xabi Alonso, especially with Jamie Gittens sidelined by a lengthy injury and attacking options in short supply.

The Athletic reported on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, that Rogers has played more minutes than any other Chelsea player this season. His return to fitness could be crucial as the club faces a demanding schedule.

Rogers has made an impressive impact since joining Chelsea from Aston Villa for £117 million in the summer. The England international has scored six goals and provided four assists in 11 appearances across all competitions, becoming a key part of Alonso’s attack. He has also formed encouraging partnerships with Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto.

But the 23-year-old’s workload is mounting. He has logged 996 minutes in 12 appearances, ahead of Palmer on 926 and Maxence Lacroix on 859. Josh Acheampong, Neto and Levi Colwill round out the club’s six most-used players.

Rogers also made 71 appearances for club and country last season—the highest total among players in Europe’s top five leagues—underscoring how much has been asked of him.

Chelsea signed Gittens from Borussia Dortmund for £48.5 million, expecting the 20-year-old to compete for a place and provide cover on the left wing. Like Rogers, Gittens is comfortable cutting inside from the left onto his stronger right foot.

However, he has been out for six weeks after injuring his ankle while playing for England Under-21s. He had made just 55 minutes of appearances under Alonso before the injury.

With Gittens unavailable, Chelsea have few natural alternatives for Rogers’ role. Neto, Estevao Willian, Geovany Quenda and Palmer generally favour the right side.

Although Gittens has yet to establish himself at Stamford Bridge, his return could benefit both players. It would give Alonso another option in attack and allow Rogers to rest occasionally. Chelsea will be hoping the winger recovers soon so they can maintain their attacking threat without overburdening one of their most important players.