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Chelsea are one of the top clubs in the Premier League, having attained numerous trophies since the start of the 21st century. Roman Abramovich's takeover in early 2000s helped the Blues grow financially strong and they have reaped benefits ever since.
With the Russian at the helm, Chelsea have been crowned champions of the Premier League five times. In addition to showcasing their dominance in the English top flight, the Blues have proven their might in Europe. They have won two UEFA Champions League titles, winning their second title recently in the 2020-21 campaign.
Chelsea's rise to prominence has attracted many skilled footballers over the last two decades. The financial prowess of the Blues meant more superstars at Stamford Bridge. Some of them played a significant role in Chelsea's success in the 21st century. It goes without saying that some of these legends have been great set-piece takers.
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On that note, let us take a look
5 best set-piece takers for Chelsea in the 21st century
#5 Willian
Brazilian winger Willian had charmed fans and critics alike with some majestic set-pieces during his tenure at Stamford Bridge. At his former club Chelsea, the winger built a solid reputation due to his exploits from set-pieces. Willian remains one of the best dead-ball specialists of the 21st century to play for the Blues.
With one eye on the top corner, Willian took a short run-up before curling the ball into the net. It was a familiar sight for Chelsea fans as the 33-year-old racked up numerous free-kicks, especially in the 2015-16 season. He was also exceptional from long range set-pieces, putting up crosses for his teammates to meet with a header.
#4 Cesc Fabregas
While there are valid arguments that Cesc Fabregas' peak was at Arsenal, the midfielder still wove his magic for Chelsea. Fabregas helped the Blues win two Premier League titles and one Europa League title. He also won one FA Cup and one League Cup in his five seasons at the club.
Fabregas was renowned for his playmaking skills, helping the forwards find the net with his vision. But the Spaniard was also majestic at set-pieces, delivering some venomous crosses for his teammates. He was blessed with superior technical prowess, which helped him manipulate the ball and cause trouble from dead ball situations.
#3 Didier Drogba
Didier Drogba was a beast during his time at Chelsea, scoring ten goals in ten finals and winning ten trophies. The forward was the epitome of a number 9, famous for being ruthless in front of goal. Due to his world class efficiency, Drogba went on to score 164 goals for the Blues.
Drogba was also a major threat to the opposition in dead ball situations. Regardless of the range of free-kicks, the Ivorian sharpshooter managed to find the back of the net more often than not. Blessed with a strong right foot, power and precision were some of the major traits which he used during free-kicks.
In addition to his screamers from outside the box, Drogba was almost inch-perfect when it came to penalties. He rarely missed from the spot, which is why he was the designated penalty taker during his time at Stamford Bridge. There is no doubt that Drogba is one of the finest set-piece takers Chelsea have ever seen in the 21st century.
#2 Frank Lampard
Frank Lampard's proficiency in set-pieces is the least-talked about aspect of his game. But make no mistake, the legendary midfielder definitely knew how to hit the ball sweetly, which is evident from his 177 Premier League goals. He is Chelsea's highest goal-scorer of all time with 211 goals in all competitions. In addition to his goals, he also boats a whooping 150 assists for the Blues.
Lampard's free-kicks caused enormous problems for the goalkeeper as he struck the ball with enormous power. The Englishman was also shrewd during set-pieces, often catching opponents off guard by hitting the ball under or through the defensive wall.
Undoubtedly, Lampard was a mainstay in Chelsea's midfield during his 13-year tenure at the club. He helped Chelsea win three Premier League titles and one Champions League title, among other notable achievements.
#1 Gianfranco Zola
Gianfranco Zola arrived at Chelsea with a reputation as a free-kick specialist and he didn't disappoint. The Italian footballer was a magician with the ball, ending up with 75 goals and 20 assists during his seven years at Chelsea. He was a fan favorite at Stamford Bridge which earned him the name of 'Magic Box'.
Very few players come close to Zola when it comes to set-pieces. The Italian forward was one of the premier free-kick scorers alongside Thierry Henry in the English top flight. He was fortunate to play alongside the great Diego Maradona, learning the art of set-pieces from the Argentine.
Zola's extraterrestrial abilities from set-pieces made him a nightmare for his opponents. The Italian, gearing up for a set-piece, spelled trouble for the goalkeepers as they could do little to stop them.
