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Michael Essien will not be offered a new contract at AC Milan when his contract runs out in June this year, and the Ghana and Chelsea legend is planning to continue his career next season in either the Indian Super League or the Major League Soccer.
The 32-year-old has not figured as a vital part of AC Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi’s plans, and there was an attempt at offloading him to MLS club FC Dallas in January – a move which fell through because the veteran was not satisfied with the financial package offered to him.
According to recent reports, he is now considering offers from unspecified ISL clubs. The equation seems to be simple – the Indian club must offer Essien more money than FC Dallas.
Essien enjoyed nine illustrious years at Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the League Cup title and the Community Shield. He also lifted the Champions League in 2012. He has appeared in the 2006 and the 2014 World Cups. His illustrious career also consists of stints at Olympique Lyonnais, SC Bastia and Real Madrid.
A player of Essien’s calibre, who has managed only seven Serie A starts this season, will be invaluable in the ISL. Brazilian legend Kaka was also recently linked to an ISL move, indications of the directions the 1-year-old league is heading in.
