Michael Essien, a former Ghanaian international, claims to be the only retired footballer who can still play professionally.
Read: Ghanaians Don’t Appreciate My Sacrifices Or Hardwork – Asamoah Gyan Laments
Essien had a trophy-laden career that lasted more than 15 years after his big year at Lyon, where he won two Ligue 1 titles.
In 2005, Chelsea paid Lyon $24.4 million for him, making him the club’s most expensive signing ever.
He spent nearly a decade at Stamford Bridge, where he helped the Blues win the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League in 2012.
The 40-year-old has also represented Real Madrid and AC Milan. After a short time with Sabail FK in Azerbaijan, he called it quits.
Sulley Muntari Retires From Football At Age 38
Essien has since taken over as manager and assistant coach of Danish club FC Nordsjaelland.
The Ghanaian is one of many legends assisting FIFA in various capacities at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, which is currently underway.
During a Q&A with the organization that runs football around the world, Essien stated that Emiliano Martinez was the best goalkeeper at the tournament.
Goalkeeper Jojo Wollacott aiming to win AFCON with Black Stars
He also named France’s Raphael Varane as the best defender and England’s Jude Bellingham as the best midfielder at the World Cup.
Essien laughed and named himself when asked to name a retired player who could still play professionally.
“Of all the guys I hang out with now, I think I’m the only one who can still play,” the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star joked.
