Aston Villa manager Unai Emery hailed Morgan Rogers as the 'protagonist' of his side's remarkable surge after the forward's brilliant brace secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester United. The win on Sunday, 21 December 2025, marked Villa's tenth consecutive victory in all competitions and their seventh in a row in the Premier League.
Rogers' Double Seals Dramatic Comeback
The 23-year-old England international was the match-winner at Villa Park, following up his impressive double at West Ham the previous week with another decisive two-goal performance. Villa had to fight back after Matheus Cunha's equaliser for United, but Rogers' quality proved the difference. The result leaves Villa third in the Premier League table, just three points behind leaders Arsenal heading into the festive period.
Emery's Delight at 'Fantastic' Performance
Unai Emery was effusive in his praise for his team and Rogers in particular. "The result was fantastic, and this is the most important thing," the Spaniard said. He acknowledged a tough match against a United side with clear qualities, but emphasised his team's resilience and tactical execution.
"We competed fantastically. We struggled, it was a tough match, but our momentum in 90 minutes showed our qualities through different players," Emery stated. He specifically highlighted goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for crucial saves and, of course, the goalscoring heroics of Rogers. "Morgan Rogers played brilliantly, scoring goals, but overall we did a fantastic job tactically and in our game plan."
The Rise of Villa's 'Fighter'
Emery provided insight into Rogers' development this season, noting his all-round contribution even when goals were not flowing earlier in the campaign. "He has started the season not getting numbers but playing well," Emery explained. "Always doing his task, always with the commitment he’s showing."
The Villa boss reserved special praise for the player's character, calling him a "fighter" and a "very good guy" with a massive commitment to the club. "When he’s getting numbers like today, of course we are very proud of everybody, but especially today with him. He is the protagonist," Emery declared.
Title Tilt and Tough Tests Ahead
With this momentum, Aston Villa have firmly inserted themselves into the Premier League title conversation. Their form will face its sternest test as they round off 2025 with challenging away fixtures at Chelsea and league leaders Arsenal, where Rogers is certain to be a central figure.
For Manchester United, managed by Ruben Amorim, the defeat was compounded by injuries to key players. Skipper Bruno Fernandes limped off during the match, and Amorim expects to be without both him and Kobbie Mainoo for their Boxing Day clash with Newcastle. Despite the loss, Amorim took positives, stating, "I think we were the better team today. We have been really consistent in the way we play and create chances."
The frustration, however, is palpable at Old Trafford, while the belief and excitement continue to grow at Villa Park, spearheaded by their in-form protagonist, Morgan Rogers.
