Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho has shocked many football enthusiasts in Africa as he named his all-time best XI, omitting former Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, despite his significant contributions under Mourinho’s management, finds himself excluded from the revered lineup.
The renowned Portuguese coach, celebrated for his stints in various top football leagues, has overseen a plethora of top-tier players throughout his illustrious career, spanning countries such as Portugal, England, Spain, and Italy.
While Mourinho has mentored several African talents, including Sulley Muntari, Salomon Kalou, and John Obi Mikel, the sole representative from the continent in his dream team is Ivory Coast’s iconic striker, Didier Drogba. The revelation came during Mourinho’s appearance on the Obi One Podcast hosted by former Chelsea player John Mikel Obi, as reported by the British media outlet Daily Mail.
Despite Essien’s pivotal role in Chelsea’s triumph during the 2005-2006 Premier League season, clinching the title under Mourinho’s guidance, his name did not secure a spot in Mourinho’s preferred 4-3-3 formation Dream Team. Notable exclusions also extended to prominent figures like Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspurs and Sergio Ramos, a key player in Mourinho’s intense El Clasico encounters with Real Madrid against Barcelona.
Mourinho’s Dream Team, predominantly drawn from his coaching spells at Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, AS Roma, Tottenham Hotspurs, and Inter Milan, boasts a formidable lineup. Petr Cech guards the goal, supported by a solid defensive quartet consisting of Javier Zanetti, John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, and William Gallas.
The midfield trio features the indomitable Claude Makelele, the prolific Frank Lampard, and the creative Mesut Ozil. On the flanks, Cristiano Ronaldo and Eden Hazard assume their positions as wingers, while the formidable Didier Drogba spearheads the attack.
Essien, who Mourinho signed from Lyon in 2005 and also worked with at Real Madrid, finds himself excluded from this prestigious lineup, showcasing the intensely competitive nature of Mourinho’s choices for his all-time best XI.
