Joao Pedro may have finally given Chelsea fans a reason to stop worrying about the club’s famous number nine curse.
The Brazilian striker needed just 31 seconds to open the scoring in Chelsea’s 3- 2 victory over Fulham on Monday, registering the fastest goal of the 2026/27 Premier League season so far. He later turned provider, setting up Cole Palmer for his first goal of the campaign as Xabi Alonso’s side secured an exciting opening-day victory.
Pedro’s performance was more than just another good game. Wearing Chelsea’s number nine shirt, a number that has brought disappointment to several high-profile strikers, he looked confident, sharp and ready to embrace the responsibility.
The News Chronicle reports that Pedro has already started turning the shirt into his own, following a 20-goal campaign last season and an impressive start to his Chelsea career.
Even before Monday’s game, expectations around the 24-year-old had been rising. His goals during pre-season and his impact since arriving at Stamford Bridge have made him one of the players Chelsea supporters are looking towards under Alonso.
We even spoke with die-hard Chelsea fan Erick Oshioma Nicholas, who is also a remote job expert, and his excitement around Pedro reflects the growing belief among supporters that Chelsea may finally have their long-awaited number nine.
“For me, Joao Pedro has already shown that he is not here to carry the burden of Chelsea’s past number nines. He is here to create his own story. The goal after 31 seconds and the assist for Palmer were not just good moments; they showed confidence, intelligence and the hunger we have been looking for. If he stays fit and Alonso keeps getting the best out of him, I genuinely believe this boy can become one of the faces of Chelsea for years to come.”
If Monday’s performance is anything to go by, Pedro is not running from the pressure – he is embracing it.
