Emmanuel Petit backs Victor Osimhen to break Chelsea's No. 9 curse since Drogba era

Former France midfielder Emmanuel Petit believes Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen can break Chelsea's perceived 'No. 9 curse' that has persisted since Didier Drogba's era. Speaking on Andy's Bet Club as quoted by Goal, Petit stated Osimhen's 'big personality and character' could make him the reliable number nine Chelsea have sought since Drogba departed.

The Blues have seen numerous high-profile strikers fail to leave a lasting mark at Stamford Bridge since Drogba, creating talk of a curse around the number nine shirt. Osimhen, currently at Galatasaray, is being monitored by Chelsea amid links to a Premier League move, with Arsenal and Barcelona also reportedly interested.

This discussion matters for Nigerian football as it highlights Osimhen's growing stature in European football. A move to Chelsea would represent a significant career step for the Super Eagles striker and potentially boost Nigerian representation in one of the world's most competitive leagues.

Does Osimhen possess the specific qualities needed to succeed where others have failed at Chelsea, and how would his potential move impact perceptions of Nigerian talent in elite football?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/02/epl-osimhen-will-end-chelseas-no-9-curse-petit/