Morgan Rogers says he and Declan Rice are fine after Emirates bust‑up
Chelsea midfielder Morgan Rogers says he and England teammate Declan Rice have patched up after a heated bust‑up at the Emirates during the London derby earlier this month. The incident began when Rice tripped Rogers, prompting the latter to shove his colleague, before Arsenal fans shouted that he should have signed for the Gunners.
The Emirates clash and fan reaction
The clash unfolded in the second half as both sides pressed for advantage. Rice’s challenge left Rogers on the ground, and the midfielder reacted instinctively, delivering a shove that sparked a brief scuffle. Arsenal supporters responded with jeers, repeatedly urging Rogers to join the Gunners.
Rogers later described the crowd’s reaction as “dog’s abuse”, adding that the vocal opposition added fuel to the moment. He said the atmosphere in London intensified emotions, making the incident feel larger than a simple on‑field dispute.
Rogers and Rice reconcile after the game
Both players met in the dressing room after the match and shook hands, with Rogers insisting they are “absolutely fine”. He told reporters that the two had spoken about the incident and that “Dec and I are fine”. The pair left the stadium together, showing no lingering animosity.
Rogers added, “It’s just competitors competing and wanting to win. London derby, me getting absolutely dog’s abuse by the fans doesn’t help! All emotions come into one at that moment, but Dec and I are fine.” He called the episode “one of those things in football” and said tempers sometimes rise but “it’s all good”.
Chelsea debut, AI memes and pressure
Following the incident, a wave of memes and AI‑generated videos depicting a dressing‑room bust‑up went viral. Rogers said he was sent deep‑fake quotes and laughed them off, remarking, “It’s quite funny being sent them. AI’s going to the next level now at the moment.” He added that any content involving him simply makes him smile.
When asked about a fabricated video, he smiled and asked, “Did I win?” After being told he had, Rogers replied, “It’s about right then.” The light‑hearted exchange highlighted his willingness to move past the episode.
Rogers, who joined Chelsea for a £117 million fee, said the price tag brings extra expectation but he welcomes the challenge. He praised the new manager’s ideas and the club’s history, noting that growing up he idolised John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole. He wants to perform for both Chelsea and England, insisting he will not let the pressure “bog me down”.
Rogers concluded that his aim is to give “positive performances” for England and to help Chelsea chase top honours, describing the prospect of winning the Europa League final as a perfect way to cap his journey so far.