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ME
Football Biography

Michael Essien

Ghanaian · Born 1982

ChelseaGhanaComplete Midfielder
Central Midfielder
58
caps

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Chelsea's Ghanaian powerhouse — African Player of the Year and one of the most complete midfielders of his generation.

Michael Essien was described by José Mourinho as the most complete midfielder he had ever managed. His extraordinary physical attributes, exceptional technical quality and ability to operate in multiple midfield roles made him one of Chelsea's most important players of the 2000s. He won two Premier League titles and the Champions League and was African Player of the Year in 2006.

José Mourinho described him as "the most complete midfielder I have ever managed."

Did You Know?

Career Honours

  • Premier League 2x
  • Champions League 2012
  • African Player of Year 2006
  • 58 Ghana caps