For years, Chelsea has been searching for the perfect number 9—a striker who could carry the weight of expectations and consistently find the back of the net. From the highs of Didier Drogba and Diego Costa to the disappointments of Fernando Torres, Alvaro Morata, Romelu Lukaku, and quite a few others, the number 9 shirt at Stamford Bridge has been more of a burden than a badge of honor.
But things might be about to change. Liam Delap to Chelsea could be the start of something different. Something long-term. Something truly special.
A History of Chelsea’s Number 9s: From Icons to Inconsistencies
1. Didier Drogba
Arguably the most iconic number 9 in Chelsea history. Drogba was a powerhouse. He scored 164 goals for the club and delivered in the biggest moments, most notably the 2012 Champions League final. His legacy is untouchable.
2. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink
Before Drogba, there was Hasselbaink. With a thunderous right foot and a clinical eye for goal, he scored 87 goals for the Blues and remains one of the club’s most underrated legends.
3. Diego Costa
The last truly successful number 9 Chelsea had. With 59 goals in 120 appearances, Costa was the embodiment of aggression, hunger, and ruthless finishing. He helped the club to two Premier League titles.
And then came the fall…
A Parade of Flops: The Number 9 Curse
Chelsea’s post-Costa striker signings have been inconsistent at best:
- Alvaro Morata — Started brightly but quickly fizzled out.
- Gonzalo Higuain — Past his prime.
- Timo Werner — Incredible work rate, poor finishing.
- Romelu Lukaku (second stint) — Big price tag, little impact.
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang — A stop-gap solution that never clicked.
The number 9 jersey became a symbol of struggle. So much so that the club even left it vacant in recent seasons.
But Liam Delap to Chelsea might finally end that cycle.
Who is Liam Delap? And Why is He Special?
The 21-year-old English striker, currently owned by Manchester City, has been making waves on loan spells—most recently at Hull City and Ipswich Town. Here’s why Delap stands out:
1. Physical Presence
Standing at 6’1″ with a muscular frame, Delap is built like a traditional number 9. He relishes physical duels and can bully defenders—similar to how Costa and Drogba used to.
2. Elite Mentality
Coaches rave about his attitude. Despite being in the shadow of Erling Haaland at City, he never stopped working. His hunger to prove himself is evident every time he steps on the pitch.
3. Versatility
He isn’t just a poacher. Delap can link play, drift wide, and press aggressively from the front—making him ideal for modern football systems.
4. Pedigree & Mentorship
His father, Rory Delap, was a Premier League warrior. Liam grew up around the game and has matured beyond his years.
Why Chelsea is the Perfect Fit
Enzo Maresca needs a striker who not only scores but also fits into a high-pressing, aggressive system. Delap ticks every box:
- Young and hungry
- Homegrown (important for squad registration)
- Physically ready for the Premier League
- Tactical intelligence
- Affordable compared to marquee strikers
He won’t demand to be the main man from day one, but he’s capable of growing into the role.
Long-Term Vision: Building a Dynasty Around Delap
Chelsea’s problem in recent years hasn’t just been quality—it’s been short-term thinking. Delap represents a long-term investment in identity.
- He can be developed into a 20+ goal striker
- Gels with the likes of Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, and Madueke.
- Fits a project-focused rebuild
The best teams build around a core. Chelsea have the midfield and wingers—Delap could be the final piece.
What the Data Says
Liam Delap: Premier League 2024–25 Season Stats
Appearances: 37 (32 starts, 5 as a substitute)
Minutes Played: 2,617
Goals: 12
Assists: 2
Shots: 68
Shots on Target: 32
Shooting Accuracy: 46%
Big Chances Created: 3
Diego Costa – Chelsea Premier League Stats
Appearances: 89 (82 starts, 7 as a substitute)
Minutes Played: ~7,238
Goals: 52
Assists: 16
Shots: 283
Shots on Target: 122
Shooting Accuracy: 43%
Big Chances Created: 16
Delap’s 46% shooting accuracy and 12 goals in his debut season already rival Costa’s early Chelsea numbers. Add in his relentless pressing and youth, and he looks built to be a modern, high-energy upgrade on Costa’s legacy.
Is Liam Delap to Chelsea the Answer?
We’re not saying Delap will instantly become a Drogba or Costa. But he has the tools. More importantly, he has the time and environment to grow into that player.
With patience, coaching, and the right system, Liam Delap could finally lift the curse of the Chelsea number 9 shirt.
Maybe, just maybe, Chelsea fans can start dreaming again.
