Former Ghana star Samuel Osei Kuffour has strongly criticised reports suggesting that Michael Essien is facing financial troubles, asserting that the former Chelsea midfielder is wealthy.
Recent reports circulated claiming that Essien was in financial distress following an Accra High Court order to sell two of his mansions, located at East Legon and Trassaco, both valued at millions of dollars.
In response to these reports, Kuffour expressed his dismay during an interview with Angel FM’s Saddick Adams, stating, “To say Michael is broke is a shame. It’s disappointing that we view our own people in such a negative light. We should focus on positivity; Michael is not broke. We’re talking about a house valued at $20 million and another at $30 million that they’re talking about.”
Kuffour continued, “No one with a clear conscience should make such claims. You haven’t spoken to the person; you don’t know what they’re going through. How can you say someone is broke?”
“You would have to know if he’s coming to your house to beg for food to say that. I know the kind of assets Michael has, and I won’t stand anywhere and say Michael is broke. Michael is wealthy.”
Saddick Adams had earlier revealed that Essien had signed a mortgage for the properties at East Legon and Trassaco years ago, paying in instalments.
Later, he entrusted management to his wife, Akosua Puni, who was supposed to continue payments. When payments stopped, legal action ensued to recover funds.
Essien, no longer interested in the properties, agreed in court to sell them. He plans to use proceeds to purchase another house, having substantial property holdings in London.
Since retiring from his successful playing career, Essien has ventured into football management and is currently serving as an assistant coach at Danish club Nordsjaelland.
By Enoch Fiifi Forson|3news.com|Ghana
