Michael Essien and Leyla Hamed during his time at Real Madrid
When Michael Essien shared a throwback photo this week from his time at Real Madrid, it sparked not just fond memories among fans but also a touching tribute from someone who knew him behind the scenes.
Essien, who spent the 2012–2013 season at Madrid, posted a picture of himself laughing with Cristiano Ronaldo during training, captioned, “Some good moments, innit.”
The post quickly gained traction among fans and former colleagues, but a reply from Moroccan-Spanish journalist Leyla Hamed stood out.
Reflecting on her memories of Essien during his time at the club’s Valdebebas training complex, she warmly wrote:
“You were one of the nicest guys at Valdebebas,” accompanied by a personal photo with him.
Hamed’s tribute highlighted the positive impact Essien had off the pitch during his time in Spain. While his performances for the team are remembered by fans, moments like this show how much he was respected and appreciated by those around the club as well.
Essien joined Real Madrid on loan from Chelsea during the 2012–2013 season, where he reunited with then-manager José Mourinho.
You were one of the nicest guys at Valdebebas pic.twitter.com/2QoS3aXSsw
— Leyla Hamed (@leylahamed) April 25, 2025
FKA/MA
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