João Pedro initially wore the number 20 shirt, which he inherited upon joining Chelsea in 2025, before switching to the number 9 shirt.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Brazilian striker João Pedro has taken over Chelsea’s prestigious No.9 shirt from Liam Delap after the London club announced several squad number changes ahead of the new campaign.
The move suggests that the 24-year-old forward has been rewarded following an outstanding debut season in which he scored 20 goals and provided nine assists across all competitions.
Meanwhile, Delap, who donned the jersey number initially, has been handed the No.12 shirt amid uncertainty surrounding his future at the club after his below-par performance at Stamford Bridge last season.
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The British striker scored only three goals in 47 appearances last season and has reportedly attracted interest from Serie A outfit Como.
Delap, however, prefers to remain in the English Premier League (EPL) and could consider offers from British clubs before the transfer window closes.
Elsewhere, Wesley Fofana takes the No.3 shirt, while Morgan Rogers will wear No.17. Mykhailo Mudryk has been allocated No.33 after being cleared to return, with Cole Palmer now occupying the No.10 shirt.
The changes come as Chelsea prepare for their opening fixture under manager Xabi Alonso.
