João Pedro Embraces Chelsea’s No.9 Challenge: ‘The Curse Doesn’t Scare Me’

João Pedro has made it clear that he is not running away from the pressure that comes with Chelsea’s famous No.9 shirt.

The Brazilian forward has reportedly chosen the number himself, embracing the responsibility of becoming Chelsea’s main striker rather than being intimidated by the club’s history with the shirt.

“The No.9 curse doesn’t scare me, it motivates me. I asked for it because I want the responsibility of being Chelsea’s main striker.”

 

🥶 João Pedro Wants the Responsibility

The decision represents a significant statement of intent from the 24-year-old.

Chelsea officially confirmed the change in squad numbers for the 2026/27 season, with João Pedro taking the No.9 shirt, previously worn by Liam Delap, who has moved to No.12.

It is a particularly interesting choice because João Pedro originally joined Chelsea wearing No.20 in 2025.

Now, rather than avoiding the expectations associated with the traditional centre-forward number, he has actively sought them out.

 

🔵 Breaking the Chelsea No.9 ‘Curse’

Chelsea’s No.9 shirt has developed an infamous reputation in recent years, with several strikers struggling to reproduce their best form while wearing it.

João Pedro, however, appears determined to write a different chapter.

The Brazilian has previously explained that No.9 is his natural position, although his technical ability allows him to drop deeper or operate from wider areas.

That versatility could be particularly valuable under new manager Xabi Alonso, who is beginning a new era at Stamford Bridge. The Premier League’s tactical analysis of Alonso’s Chelsea has identified João Pedro as one of the key attacking players in the new project.

 

🔥 Confidence Backed by Performances

João Pedro has given Chelsea supporters plenty of reasons to be excited.

Reports from preseason indicate that the Brazilian has been among the standout performers, with his finishing, movement and link-up play fitting well into Alonso’s system.

That form makes his decision to take the No.9 shirt even more significant.

He isn’t simply accepting the responsibility he is asking for it.

 

Can João Pedro Finally End the Curse?

Ultimately, shirt numbers don’t win football matches. Goals, consistency and performances do.

But João Pedro’s mentality is already clear.

He knows the history surrounding Chelsea’s No.9 shirt, yet instead of seeing it as a burden, he sees it as motivation.

Now the challenge is simple:

Score the goals. Lead the line. Carry the No.9.

Chelsea fans will be hoping João Pedro can turn one of Stamford Bridge’s most talked-about shirt numbers into a symbol of success. 🔵🔥