Ghanian international Michael Essien has completed his move from Chelsea to AC Milan, signing a 17-month deal.
The news, which Richard Farley noted in his Chelsea column yesterday, was confirmed on Monday following an oral agreement struck by the clubs struck last Friday.
Speaking about the departure, Jose Mourinho said:
“To show Michael respect is to not stop him going. We would have been happy had he stayed because he is fantastic player for the team, but he’s given everything for the club and a great chance arrived for his future.
“I know he can continue to play at a high level and I wish him success and happiness in Italy and at the World Cup in Brazil.”
Essien made 256 appearances for Chelsea (33 of them as a substitute) after joining from Lyon for a then-record signing of £24.4million in 2005. Essien went on to become one of the Premier League’s best midfielders, known for his incredible strength, gritty defense and a fierce outside shot (his sensational long-range strike against Arsenal in 2006-07 earned him the club’s Goal of the Season award).
A series of knee injuries sadly derailed Essien’s career and upon regaining his health last season, he went on-loan to Real Madrid where he made nine appearances under manager Jose Mourinho.
This season the 31-year-old returned to Stamford Bridge where stiff competition has limited him to nine total appearances, five of which came in the Premier League. With Brazil 2014 on the loom, Essien’s decision to leave West London is one few could argue against.
A fan favorite, “Le Bison” leaves Chelsea having scored 25 goals for the Blues.