Jose Mourinho May Take Michael Essien Back to Stamford Bridge

According to reports from FOX Sports, Michael Essien seems to be heading back to Chelsea this summer, just as Jose Mourinho seems to be set to do the same.  The Ghanian appeared in 20 matches under Mourinho this season in La Liga and often times was moved from his natural defensive midfield position, to that of a right back.

Since being shipped out to the Santiago Bernabeu last summer, he’s enjoyed a fair amount of success in the Spanish top division despite suffering an injury that set him back in 2009-10 with the Blues.  And with one year left on his contract, Mourinho should continue to bring out the best in the 30-year-old.

Essien seems thrilled to be following Mourinho back to Stamford Bridge as the Portuguese managerial mastermind has been a father-figure to the midfielder whom refers to Mourinho as “Daddy.”  Essien told The Sun:

“We have a very good relationship.  I understand him very well.  Daddy knows I can play in any position he wants me to, except goalkeeper.”

The positive relationship between the player and manager makes for a clear-cut advantage once again in the midfield for Chelsea.  With Juan Mata, Oscar, Frank Lampard and Eden Hazard all lurking for starting positions with the Blues, Essien’s return will once again bring for a sound defensive approach to his side.

Although David Luiz seems to have fit the defensive midfield role perfectly under interim manager Rafa Benitez, he could be pushed back on defense to make way for the Ghanian international.  However, a true partnership could be in the making between he and the Brazilian as Luiz enjoys entering the attack thus leaving the midfield vacant at times.  As Luiz continues to drive the attack forward next season, Essien could offer his continued relentless work-rate in front of Branislav Ivanovic and John Terry.