I will choose Thomas Partey over my prime self – Ghana legend Michael Essien

Ghana football legend, Michael Essien has surprisingly said he would choose Thomas Partey over himself at their respective peaks.

Essien, who played at the 2006 and 2014 World Cups in Germany and Brazil respectively is regarded as one of the best players who has enjoyed an illustrious career.

Having won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League with Chelsea, Essien speaking to Sporty FM lauded Partey’s exceptional abilities.

The former Real Madrid and AC Milan midfielder described Partey as a fantastic player and admitted he would choose Partey over himself in his playing days.

“Between myself and Thomas Partey in our primes, I don’t think I would pick myself. I would go for Partey. He is a fantastic midfielder, you know,” Essien stated.

“I will never put myself ahead of Thomas Partey. It is two different generations so I will put Partey ahead. He is that guy I love and I speak to him now and then,” he added.

Partey broke into Atlético Madrid’s first team in 2015 and established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation and also won La Liga, the UEFA Europa League, and the UEFA Super Cup.

His standout performances earned him a €50 million transfer to Premier League giants Arsenal in 2020.

Since joining Arsenal, the 31-year-old has become a key figure, making over 100 Premier League appearances and winning the FA Community Shield.