João Pedro Potential Chelsea Shirt Numbers

Chelsea’s summer overhaul continues with the anticipated arrival of João Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion. The 22-year-old Brazilian forward is the latest addition to a growing list of attacking additions under new manager Enzo Maresca, as the Blues aim to reshape their frontline for the 2025/26 campaign.

The boy from Brazil. 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/lVM8B9TlBV
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 2, 2025

Having impressed in a range of roles for both Brighton and Watford, Pedro boasts proven Premier League credentials and the versatility to slot into a variety of tactical systems. With arguments over where he will fit into Maresca’s side ongoing, another topic of interest regards what number shirt Pedro will wear at Stamford Bridge.

João Pedro’s Shirt Number History
Pedro began his professional career at Fluminense in Brazil, where he initially wore the No. 23 shirt. Upon his arrival at Watford in January 2020, he was first handed No. 17, which he wore only sporadically in his first Premier League appearances. Following the club’s relegation, Pedro was granted the iconic No. 10 shirt ahead of the 2020/21 Championship season. This was where his impact grew and his talent became more apparent.

Having secured a club-record move to Brighton in 2023, Pedro inherited the No. 9 shirt at the Amex Stadium. While capable of playing up front, some of his most impressive form was enjoyed when playing just behind a lead striker, where his natural role as a second striker or attacking midfielder could be fully accommodated.

Chelsea’s Current Shirt Number Situation
With Pedro’s favourite numbers largely occupied at Chelsea, there may be a restricted option for the new striker.

The No. 10 shirt, which he wore at Watford, is now occupied by Cole Palmer.

His old No. 9 jersey at Brighton is now worn by Liam Delap, who was recently confirmed to take the number for the Club World Cup campaign.

The No. 17 shirt he first wore at Watford is taken by Andrey Santos, though the midfielder’s long-term future is uncertain.

The No. 23 shirt, which Pedro wore at Fluminense, is currently held by defender Trevoh Chalobah.

In the circumstances, Pedro may have to consider other options from the currently available squad numbers. As things stand, the following shirt numbers are empty and realistic options:

Available Numbers: 13, 16, 20, 21, 26, 28, and 29

Although No. 13 is traditionally reserved for goalkeepers, alternatives such as 20, 21, and 29 give the more conventional outfield choice. As a side note, Eden Hazard wore No. 17 and then No. 10 during his Chelsea career, and Pedro may be hoping to make a similar impact—whatever number he decides on in the end.

João Pedro’s versatility, technical ability, and high ceiling make him an exciting signing for Chelsea’s attack. Even though the shirt number is a minor aspect in the grand scheme of things, it tends to have personal significance for the player and symbolic significance for the supporters. Whether he opts for a number that has had past personal significance or starts afresh with a new identity, all eyes will be on his transition into Chelsea’s project under Maresca.