Michael Essien Names Thomas Partey as a Better Midfielder, Wishes They Played Together

Michael Essien Names Thomas Partey as a Better Midfielder, Wishes They Played Together

  • Michael Essien has picked Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey over himself as the better midfielder
  • Partey, who has been linked with a potential summer exit from Arsenal, has played a pivotal role for the Gunners since his arrival five years ago
  • Despite playing in different generations, both Essien and Partey have left an indelible impact on their respective clubs and the Black Stars

Former Ghanaian international Michael Essien has openly stated that Thomas Partey is a better midfielder than he was in his prime.

Both from different generations have had good careers, with Essien regarded as a Chelsea and Ghana legend while Partey is on his way to becoming an Arsenal great.

Michael Essien Names Thomas Partey as a Better Midfielder, Wishes They Played Together
Michael Essien insists Thomas Partey is a better player than him. Photo: Jamie McDonald/ Catherine Ivill.
Source: Getty Images

Essien, who was a dominant force at Chelsea and enjoyed a successful career with top clubs such as Real Madrid and AC Milan, was known for his commanding presence in midfield.

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However, when asked to compare his abilities with Partey, Essien humbly placed the Arsenal star ahead of himself.

In an interview with Sporty FM, the ex-Lyon midfielder was quick to downplay his own talents, stating,

"Between myself and Thomas Partey in prime, I don’t think I will pick myself. I will go for Partey. He is a fantastic midfielder, you know."

While Essien didn’t elaborate on why he believes Partey is superior, his respect for the Arsenal star is evident.

Both players share a similar playing style, excelling as defensive midfielders with versatility to cover right-back when necessary due to injuries.

Essien’s prime years saw him achieve major success with Chelsea, including winning the UEFA Champions League, Premier League titles, and several FA Cups.

Partey, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe, with notable achievements such as winning the UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Europa League, and La Liga during his time at Atlético Madrid.

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Essien wished he played with Partey

Essien has also previously expressed admiration for Partey, stating he would have loved to play alongside him.

"Thomas is such a good player. I’d have loved to play with him," Essien remarked.
"He is a talented player making waves in Europe. He is one player I’d liked to play alongside, but it will never happen. It is their time at the Black Stars now, so we have to support them and hopefully, they can take it from where we left off."

Kingston picks between Essien and Partey

Meanwhile, Ghana legend Laryea Kingston has named his favourite between midfielders Michael Essien and Thomas Partey.

Both from different generations have had good careers, with Essien regarded as a Chelsea and Ghana legend while Partey is on his way to becoming an Arsenal great.

According to Kingston, Essien and Partey have their strengths and weaknesses, but the ex-Chelsea star is miles ahead of the former Atletico Madrid player.

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"They all have their strengths and weaknesses, but for me, I think I was really, really privileged to play alongside Michael Essien," Kingston told Joy Sports, as quoted by Ghana Soccernet.

Essien shares coaching experience

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Michael Essien shared his experience working with some of the top managers in the world including Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti.

The former Ghana international played under both managers during his time at English club Chelsea.

Essien works with Danish club FC Nordsjaelland as an assistant coach.

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Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Isaac Darko avatar

Isaac Darko (Sports Editor) Isaac Darko is a Sports Editor at Yen, boasting over 10 years of experience in the media industry. He has produced award-winning TV shows such as "Football 360" and "Sports XTRA" on ViaSat 1/Kwese TV. Isaac began his career as an Assistant Producer at TV3 Ghana Limited (Media General) and also contributed as a Writer and Weekend Editor for Pulse Ghana. He earned his bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now University of Media, Arts and Communication). Email: isaac.darko@sportsbrief.com.