Michael Essien

Michael Essien was born on 3 December 1982 in Accra, Ghana. He began his professional career playing for Liberty, a local club.

When Essien was playing for Bastia, he was often compared with Vieira because of the rough manner of tackle. Michael soon became the leader of the team and cleared the way for the UEFA Cup for his team, netting six goals in the French Ligue 1.

In 2003, Essien signed for Lyon. During two seasons with Lyon, the footballer won the French Championship twice. Besides, in 2005 he was chosen the best player (5 goals in 10 games of the Champions League). Later on, in 2005, Michael joined Chelsea and made his debut in the match against Arsenal. In 2006-07, he was by all rights awarded the Chelsea F.C. Player of the Year. In 2007, Essien signed a new five year contract.

In 2012/2013 season the Ghanaian was loaned to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

In January 2014 Essien moved to AC Milan.

Michael Essien is the most expensive African player. He is the most titled footballer of the Ghana national team in spite of his age. Michael is good at all defensive positions; he is the national team captain.