Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud has publicly voiced his support for Liam Delap, the Blues’ newest signing, who is stepping into the spotlight with one of football’s most scrutinized shirt numbers: Chelsea’s No. 9. The Frenchman believes Delap has what it takes to handle the immense pressure that comes with the iconic jersey—one that has weighed heavily on many high-profile players before him.
Liam Delap Joins Chelsea With Big Expectations
After a £30 million move from Ipswich Town, Liam Delap was handed the legendary No. 9 shirt at Chelsea—a number historically associated with great strikers, but also with a long line of flops at Stamford Bridge. From Fernando Torres to Romelu Lukaku and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, several forwards have struggled to live up to the expectations that come with the number.
Now, the 22-year-old Delap, who scored 12 goals in the Premier League last season, will aim to change that narrative and establish himself as the club’s new attacking focal point. And one man who knows the weight of that shirt is standing firmly behind him: Olivier Giroud.
Giroud Reflects on His Own ‘Number 9 Curse’ Moment
Giroud, who played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup triumphs, knows a thing or two about overcoming pressure. In an interview, he recalled a moment when he too was warned about a so-called curse tied to the No. 9—this time at AC Milan.
“When I signed for AC Milan, Paolo Maldini asked me, ‘Are you sure you want to wear number 9? People say it’s cursed here,’” Giroud said.
“I told him it’s not the number on my back that determines how I play or how many goals I score. I wanted to prove that the curse didn’t exist—and I did.”
The 37-year-old went on to score vital goals for both club and country, establishing himself as one of the most consistent forwards of his generation.
The Unique Pressure of Being a No. 9
Giroud emphasized how demanding the striker’s role can be, especially in a club like Chelsea where expectations are sky-high.
“Being a striker is the best position in football—but it comes with huge pressure. When you score, you’re the hero. But when you go a few games without scoring, everyone points the finger at you,” he said.
He stressed the importance of mental toughness and resilience in navigating the highs and lows of a striker’s career.
“To succeed in that role, you need more than talent. You need strong character, confidence, and the ability to bounce back from criticism or difficult spells.”
A Message of Encouragement and Advice
Despite the challenges ahead, Giroud believes Liam Delap has the right mindset and raw ability to make a big impact at Chelsea. The World Cup winner offered words of wisdom for the young striker as he embarks on this high-pressure chapter of his career.
“You need to show character and mental strength. Stay focused, work hard, and don’t let tough times shake your belief,” said Giroud.
“There will always be ups and downs in football, especially as a striker. But if Liam stays committed and confident—and I think he has great talent—he will be just fine.”
Can Delap Rewrite the No. 9 Legacy?
With the backing of a proven champion like Giroud and the trust of Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, Delap’s mission is clear: to silence the whispers of the No. 9 curse and bring consistent goals back to Stamford Bridge.
Time will tell if the young forward can succeed where so many before him have faltered. But one thing is certain—he has the belief of someone who has walked the same path and conquered it.
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