Aston Villa continued their remarkable 2025-26 Premier League campaign by defeating Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park, extending their winning streak to 10 matches in all competitions—their best top-flight run since 1914. The spotlight shone firmly on 23-year-old forward Morgan Rogers, who scored both goals for the Villans and continues to prove himself as one of the Premier League’s rising stars.

Rogers’ Brilliance on the Big Stage

Rogers opened the scoring just before halftime with a sublime curling effort into the corner, giving Villa a lead that United struggled to respond to. Despite Matheus Cunha levelling the match after capitalising on a Matty Cash error, Rogers once again displayed his class by stepping inside United defender Leny Yoro to curl a replica strike past goalkeeper Senne Lammens. This marked Rogers’ sixth goal in as many league games, underlining his key role in Villa’s attacking setup.

Unai Emery, visibly elated, celebrated on the sidelines by removing and tossing his coat into the air as Villa achieved only their second home Premier League victory over Manchester United in 27 attempts, moving to within three points of league leaders Arsenal.

Manchester United’s Setback: Fernandes Injury

For Manchester United, the day brought further misfortune as captain Bruno Fernandes was forced off at halftime due to a hamstring injury. Already missing six senior players due to injury, suspension, and Africa Cup of Nations duty, United’s squad depth was severely tested. Fernandes’ absence could extend for multiple matches, coinciding with the AFCON commitments of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui.

Ruben Amorim, United’s head coach, faces a crucial period as the team must navigate the festive fixture schedule without their talisman. Fernandes has rarely missed matches in his United career, making his absence a “massive blow” to the club’s attacking capabilities. Youngsters Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey made their debuts as substitutes, but the lack of experience highlighted the strain on United’s squad.

Villa’s Rising Star and Transfer Implications

Morgan Rogers is now widely regarded as Aston Villa’s talisman, spearheading the club’s unexpected push toward a top-four finish and potential Champions League qualification. His performance against United reinforces his growing reputation as one of the league’s brightest talents.

Signed from Middlesbrough in 2024 for £16m, Rogers has proven to be an exceptional bargain. With seven goals this season, he tops Villa’s scoring charts and has been instrumental in their resurgence under Emery. The forward’s rising profile has attracted attention from clubs looking to strengthen ahead of the summer transfer window, and Villa may face tough decisions to retain him beyond 2026.

What’s Next for Villa and United

Aston Villa will next travel to Chelsea on 27 December in their upcoming Premier League fixture, while Manchester United will host Newcastle at Old Trafford on Boxing Day (26 December). The festive period will test both teams’ squad depth and tactical adaptability, particularly with key injuries and international duties in play.

Player Ratings vs. Manchester United

• M. Rogers (Villa) – 8.75 – Player of the Match
• J. McGinn – 7.43
• E. Martínez – 7.23
• Y. Tielemans – 7.19
• E. Konsa – 6.83
• A. Onana – 6.76
• I. Maatsen – 6.76
• V. Lindelöf – 6.68
• B. Kamara – 6.64
• O. Watkins – 6.39
• L. Bogarde – 6.32
• E. Buendía – 6.30
• L. Digne – 6.26
• M. Cash – 6.20
• D. Malen – 6.18
• E. Guessand – 5.87