In a move that has shocked many Chelsea fans, manager Enzo Maresca has officially handed over the iconic No. 10 shirt—formerly worn by Cole Palmer—to the club’s latest signing, Derry There, signaling the club’s major confidence in the young talent.
Derry There, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder from Belgium, joined Chelsea this summer in a high-profile €35 million deal from Anderlecht. Known for his flair, vision, and dribbling ability, Derry has been hailed as one of the most promising young players in Europe.
Cole Palmer, who had just taken the No. 10 jersey earlier this summer following Mykhailo Mudryk’s suspension, will now return to wearing the No. 20 shirt—his original number since arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2023. According to club sources, Palmer agreed to the switch in a show of leadership and support for the new signing.
> “Derry is a special talent. He reminds me of Hazard in his prime. Giving him the No. 10 is a statement—we believe he’s ready to lead,” said Maresca during the unveiling at Cobham.
Palmer, speaking to club media, added:
> “The number doesn’t define me. What matters is the badge on the front. Derry deserves the 10—it’s his time.”
The No. 10 shirt at Chelsea carries significant weight, having been worn by legends like Eden Hazard, Joe Cole, and Gianfranco Zola. For a newcomer to inherit it just days after joining, the expectations are sky-high.
Derry There is expected to make his debut in Chelsea’s preseason finale against AC Milan at Stamford Bridge this weekend.
Sportlands.co.uk
