Former Nigeria captain John Mikel Obi has paid tribute to his former Chelsea teammate Michael Essien, calling the Ghanaian midfielder one of the most underrated players of his Premier League generation.
Speaking in an interview with TNT Sports, Mikel reflected on their years at Stamford Bridge and revealed just how highly Essien was regarded among his fellow players, despite not always receiving widespread public acclaim.
“Michael Essien didn’t get the recognition he deserved,” Mikel said. “We called him the train. When he goes, it is difficult to stop, power, speed, technique. Everything he had.”
Essien joined Chelsea from French side Lyon in 2005 for a then-club record fee of £24.4 million. Over the course of his eight-and-a-half-year stay in west London, the Ghana international made a lasting impression with his tireless work rate and explosive playing style.
Among his many memorable moments, Essien scored a thunderous goal against Barcelona in the 2009 Champions League semi-finals, a strike still fondly remembered by Chelsea fans. However, his time at the club was hampered by a series of injuries that curtailed his playing time and ultimately impacted his legacy.
Despite these setbacks, Essien’s contribution was substantial. He made 256 appearances for Chelsea, winning eight major trophies including two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, a League Cup, and the UEFA Champions League in 2012.
Mikel and Essien played 125 matches together for the Blues, forming a formidable midfield partnership that helped anchor the club during a golden era.
Essien had a brief loan spell at Real Madrid in the 2012/13 season under former Chelsea manager José Mourinho before moving on to AC Milan.
While his impact may not always have made the headlines, Mikel’s words are a reminder of the respect Essien commanded in the dressing room, and why many believe his true value is only now being fully appreciated.
