Michael Essien (L) and Thomas Partey (R)
Former Black Stars player, Laryea Kingston, has weighed in on the long-standing debate between Michael Essien and Thomas Partey, naming the former Chelsea midfielder as the better player.
Although Laryea acknowledged Partey’s talent, he asserted that Essien stands out for his remarkable achievements with Chelsea.
He based his choice on Essien’s ability to break into and become a key player in a highly competitive Chelsea team, stating that the former footballer was ‘something else’.
“They all have their strengths and weaknesses, but for me, I think I was really, really privileged to play alongside Michael Essien,” Laryea told JoySports.
“We all know what he did at Chelsea when they had a fantastic team, a very strong team. He was a regular in the team, playing week in, week out. Partey has his strengths and has done very well, but for me, Michael Essien was something else.”
The debate between Michael Essien and Thomas Partey has been a topic of discussion among Ghanaians, with fans divided on which player is superior.
Essien retired from football in 2020, leaving behind a stellar reputation as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder.
During his illustrious career, he won the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League, multiple FA Cups, and League Cups. He played for renowned clubs such as Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan.
Thomas Partey, on the other hand, is widely regarded as one of Arsenal’s best defensive midfielders.
The 31-year-old is often compared to elite players in his position, such as Manchester City’s Rodri and Casemiro. Partey’s achievements include winning the UEFA Super Cup, the UEFA Europa League, and a La Liga title.
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