Essien Player Review
Pros
Reliable Passing & Quick Distribution
Essien excels at short and long passes, making him effective at circulating possession and linking defense to attack. His quick passing ability allows smooth transitions in midfield.
Long Shot Threat
He can score powerful long-range shots with his strong foot, making him an occasional goal-scoring threat from outside the box.
Decent Pace for a CDM
While not the fastest, he has good enough pace to keep up with transitions and recover defensively when needed.
Excellent Defensive Marking & Pressing
Essien’s marking is solid, and his quick reactions allow him to close down opponents swiftly and apply aggressive pressure.
Strong Tackling & Interceptions
His standing tackles are precise, and he intercept passes effectively, making him a key player in breaking up opposition attacks.
Great Ball Control & Strength
His balance and ball control allow him to carry the ball forward comfortably while also holding possession well under pressure.
Physically Strong
Essien is physically dominant, making him tough to dispossess and excellent in defensive duels.
Cons
Work Rate Could Be Better
His work rate is not as aggressive as some top-tier CDMs, meaning he might not cover ground as much as expected.
Struggles in Aerial Duels
Despite his physicality, he isn’t dominant in the air, making him less effective against aerial threats.
Best When Paired with Another Defensive Midfielder
While he is a great CDM, he performs better when partnered with a more defensive-minded midfielder to help cover spaces.
Conclusion
Essien is a solid and well-rounded CDM with strong tackling, passing, and physicality. His ability to control midfield and win duels makes him a great defensive presence. However, he isn’t dominant in the air and works better in a double-pivot setup rather than as a lone CDM. If you need a strong ball-winning midfielder, Essien is a great choice!
Rating: 9.4/10