Former Ghana defender, Samuel Osei Kuffour has strongly refuted claims suggesting that Michael Essien is facing financial difficulties, asserting instead that the former Chelsea midfielder is extremely wealthy.
A report from Daily Guide had indicated that Essien was experiencing financial challenges after two of his houses were slated for auction by court order.
These properties, located in East Legon and Trassaco, are reportedly valued at millions of dollars.
Despite speculation about Essien’s financial situation, Kuffour dismissed such reports as baseless, affirming that Essien possesses significant assets and remains financially secure.
Kuffour, who represented Bayern Munich and AS Roma during the 2000s, emphasized his knowledge of Essien’s holdings.
“To bring out the news and say Michael is broke is a shame. It is a shame that we think so negatively about our people. We should be positive; Michael is not broke. We are talking about a house that they took from him, which cost $20 million, and another one that costs $30 million,” Kuffour told Angel FM’s Saddick Adams.
“Nobody with a proper conscience will come out and say all kinds of things. You never spoke to the person; you never know exactly what the person is going through. So, how can you justify saying someone is broke?
“You would have to know if he comes to your house and begs for food, then you can justify it. I know the kind of assets that Michael has, and I will not stand anywhere and say Michael is broke. Michael is filthy rich,” he added.
Kuffour highlighted Essien’s extensive career, starting from the Ghana Premier League to prominent clubs like Lyon, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan.
He noted Essien’s achievements with Chelsea, including multiple league titles, FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League in 2012.
Following his playing career, Essien has ventured into coaching and currently serves as a first-team assistant coach at FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark.