Southeast Asia Indonesia

OFFICIAL: Persib Bandung signs former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien

Indonesian outfit Persib Bandung has signed former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder Michael Essien on a one-year contract, plus the option to sign another one-year extension, according to an announcement made by the club on their social media network.

Previously, the Ghanaian midfielder has arrived in Indonesia after being heavily linked with a move to Persib Bandung. Essien, 34, last played for Greek side Panathinaikos in the Superleague Greece.

The details of his contract with Persib Bandung is not disclosed, but according to reports, the Indonesian club has agreed to pay a salary worth of $800.000 a year for the former Chelsea midfielder. He will wear number 5 at his new club.

Widely considered as one of the best midfielders of his generation, Michael Essien made his name at French club Lyon, before moving to Chelsea, where he spent nine years of his season. With the Blues, the Ghanaian footballer won two league titles in 2006 and 2010, as well as the UEFA Champions League title in 2012.

He also represented Ghana at international levels, playing nearly 60 matches for the Black Stars.