Petit Backs Osimhen to End Chelsea’s No. 9 Curse

The persistent struggles of Chelsea Football Club to find a consistent and impactful number nine striker since the departure of club legend Didier Drogba have become a recurring narrative in English football. This season, the Blues continue their search for a reliable goalscorer, and the name Victor Osimhen has been frequently linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.

“

Victor Osimhen is doing well with Galatasaray but when he left Napoli, I was hoping that he was going to come to the Premier League, I have no idea why he chose Galatasaray.

Emmanuel Petit, a former midfielder who experienced both sides of the London divide with Arsenal and Chelsea, has weighed in on the Osimhen speculation. Petit believes the Nigerian international has the necessary attributes to succeed where many others have faltered. He specifically highlighted Osimhen's "big personality and character" as key factors that could help him overcome the mental pressures associated with wearing the iconic number nine jersey at Chelsea.

“

Since Drogba, I think there’s been a curse around the number nine at Chelsea. I think it’s different with Osimhen because this guy has a really big personality and character, he could be the man to break that curse.

Punch Sports Extra reports that Petit was surprised by Osimhen's decision to join Turkish club Galatasaray after leaving Napoli. He had anticipated a move to the Premier League, suggesting that Osimhen's talent and ambition would naturally lead him to England's top flight. Petit's comments reflect a common sentiment among observers who see Osimhen as a player destined for the highest level of European football.

“

The way he plays on the pitch is a pain for defenders. This guy is very aggressive. He has something to prove. After he left France for Napoli, he did great in Italy. But then he was fighting with the president of Napoli, and then he went to Galatasaray.

Petit's assessment of Osimhen's playing style further fuels the narrative. He describes the striker as a "pain for defenders" due to his aggressive approach and physical presence. This, combined with his proven track record in Italy and France, suggests that Osimhen possesses the blend of skill, determination, and resilience that Chelsea desperately needs. Whether a move to Stamford Bridge materializes remains to be seen, but Petit's endorsement certainly adds weight to the possibility of Osimhen becoming the solution to Chelsea's long-standing striker woes.

“

I think Osimhen has many seasons to play at the highest level. So I think that could be something very, very good for the Premier League. I think he has the character, the personality, and the background to play in the Premier League.