‘He was a legend, king’ – Chelsea fans react to Michael Essien’s 20-year anniversary

Some Chelsea fans have heaped praises on legendary Ghanaian footballer, Michael Essien, as today, August 19, 2025, marks exactly 20 years since the club signed him from French side Lyon.

In 2005, the Black Stars midfielder signed with Premier League side Chelsea for a £24.4 million transfer fee.

The fee made him the most expensive African footballer at that time.

At Chelsea, Essien helped the club win the Premier League in 2006 and 2010, as well as three FA Cups and one League Cup.

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He won the UEFA Champions League in 2011-12 and also placed as runner-up in the 2007-08 UEFA Champions League.

He won the Chelsea Goal of the Season award twice, in the 2006-07 and 2008-09 seasons.

In an X post by Chelsea’s official account on August 19, 2025, it was written, “Michael Essien signed for the Blues #OnThisDay in ’05!”

In reaction to celebrating the player’s 20-year milestone with the club, some fans noted that Essien’s exploits for the club make him an absolute legend who will be remembered in history.

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Others described his performances as monstrous, citing how he controlled the midfield and his precise passing and goal-scoring ability made him a standout, thereby earning him the title ‘king’.

Read the comments below:

SB/VPO

Meanwhile, watch videos from the 31st Ordinary Congress of the GFA