Behind Michael Essien’s success: A mother’s sacrifices that made a star
- Michael Essien’s journey from an Accra marketplace to the bright lights of Stamford Bridge was powered by his mother’s belief and sacrifices
- One defining conversation with his mother, Aba Gyandoh, inspired a young Essien to fully pursue football and altered the course of his life
- Essien established a foundation to honour his family’s hardships and give back to his hometown community
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Michael Essien’s journey from the streets of Accra to the bright lights of Stamford Bridge was built on strong family foundations, particularly the unwavering support of his mother, Aba Gyandoh, whose sacrifices and belief played a defining role in shaping his career.
Born on December 3, 1982, Essien was raised in humble surroundings. After parting ways with his father, James Essien, who had other families, Aba worked relentlessly, baking and selling bread at a local market, to provide for her children and keep their dreams alive.
Source: Getty Images
How Essien's mother shaped his career
According to City Celeb, despite financial hardship, Essien's mother made sure her children had stability and nurtured their ambitions.
From an early age, Aba’s guidance and support played a crucial role in steering Essien’s future. While still in school, he earned a call-up to Ghana’s under-17 national team but was reluctant to step away from his studies.
After a heartfelt discussion, his mother urged him to take the opportunity, a moment that proved decisive and ultimately launched him on the road to international football success.
Besides being his first champion, Aba also kept Essien grounded. Growing up in Awutu Breku, a small town in Ghana’s Central Region, Essien often played barefoot on dusty fields, but his mother always ensured he came home with a football. Her presence was a constant source of strength.
When Michael Essien lost his brother
Meanwhile, tragedy also shaped his journey. Essien’s older brother died while searching for water, a loss that left a profound mark on him, according to the Ghana Football Association.
In his memory, the Chelsea legend launched the Michael Essien Foundation, dedicated to improving conditions in his hometown. The foundation builds vital infrastructure like boreholes for clean water, public toilets, and community libraries.
For the former Real Madrid and AC Milan midfielder, the foundation holds profound personal meaning. Essien has explained in past interviews that he is motivated by a desire to support the community that nurtured him, while honoring his mother’s sacrifices and commemorating his late brother.
Now a coach at Danish club FC Nordsjaelland, Essien could have simply enjoyed his fame, but he chose to transform it into a lasting legacy—giving back the guidance and encouragement he received from his mother and inspiring hope in the community that shaped his early life.
Source: Getty Images
Why Essien is Ghana's finest midfielder
Earlier, YEN.com.gh explored why Michael Essien is largely considered Ghana's greatest ever midfielder ahead of the likes of Stephen Appiah and Sulley Muntari.
The Premier League legend achieved peerless success at Chelsea before taking his talent to Real Madrid and AC Milan.
Source: YEN.com.gh
