The number 10 shirt has been significant in football, especially at Chelsea, where it has been worn by some of the club's best players such as Eden Hazard, Joe Cole, Juan Mata, and Willian during their time at Stamford Bridge.
The most recent Blues occupant of the no.10 shirt has been Christian Pulisic, who recently left the club to join AC Milan in Serie A.
As the no.10 jersey is currently vacant, Chelsea are likely to assign it to a new player for the upcoming season. Traditionally, this number is given to the most creative or influential player in the team, however, the Blues squad have more than one candidate that can perfectly fit that role.
Let's take a look at the top 3 Chelsea players who could take over the number 10 shirt at the club.
Who could take the number 10 shirt at Chelsea?
#1 Mykhaylo Mudryk
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A potential candidate to take on the desired number 10 jersey at Chelsea is the Ukrainian star Mykhaylo Mudryk.
Despite facing initial challenges during his early months at the club, the 22-year-old is undoubtedly one of the most gifted players on the current team, and his displays during the club's pre-season games are poor of it.
Mudryk is known for his speed, technical prowess, and excellent dribbling abilities. He shares similar qualities with Chelsea's former star Eden Hazard and has the potential to become one of the best wingers in the Premier League.
#2 Raheem Sterling
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Sterling is currently one of the most experienced players at Stamford Bridge. He knows how the winning mentality works as he has previously been a four-time Premier League winner.
The England international played a crucial role in being the club's standout performer during the 2022-23 season. Having contributed nine goals and four assists across various competitions last term, Sterling's experience makes him a valuable player in Mauricio Pochettino's system.
With the upcoming season on the horizon, Sterling's influence at the club is expected to be significant as they strive to regain their former glory. Receiving the number 10 jersey would undoubtedly motivate the player to push the team to new success.
#3 Christopher Nkunku
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French attacker Christopher Nkunku is another strong contender for the prestigious jersey number at Chelsea. The club signed the talented player from RB Leipzig this summer for a reported fee of €60 million.
Nkunku is expected to lead the attack for Mauricio Pochettino's side in the upcoming season. He has made an impressive start to his time with the Blues, netting goals in his first two games during the ongoing pre-season tour against Wrexham and Brighton.
The forward currently wears the number 45 shirt at Stamford Bridge, while he still has the chance to get over the number 10 as the season progresses.