Christian Pulisic says everyone at Chelsea felt he was ready to be new number 10

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Christian Pulisic says everyone at Chelsea felt he was ready to wear the number 10 shirt following Willian’s departure.

The 22-year-old has finally worn the number 10 shirt during his cameo in the 4-0 home win over Crystal Palace on 3 October.

The hamstring injury he suffered from the FA Cup final against Arsenal in August forced him out for the first five games of the season.

And although Timo Werner and Kai Havertz’s arrivals have helped fill the void left by his absence, Chelsea clearly missed his elusiveness on the pitch.

Speaking about his new shirt number, Pulisic admitted that he previously a discussion with the club when the number was left vacant by Willian’s departure.

“It meant a lot,” he told CBS Sports about being given the number 10 shirt.

“It’s no secret that it’s been my favorite number. It’s the number I wanted to be.

“Now that Willian moved on this season, there was an opportunity there. I spoke with the club and everyone felt like I was ready for it, and I felt I was ready, and it’s a number I like.

“So it was a really proud moment for me last weekend to wear it for Chelsea for the first time.

“I understand what it means and how much history it has — how many incredible players have worn it before me — but I see it as my favorite number. I just want to do well.”

But the USMNT star doesn’t feel being Chelsea’s new number 10 put extra pressure on him on the pitch.

“I’ve been No. 10 for the national team for a while, as well,” he explained.

“It’s not something I’m thinking about too much, especially while I’m playing.

“Of course I want to perform, but I put pressure on myself for other reasons.”