Two luxurious mansions owned by former Chelsea and Ghanaian football star, Michael Essien are slated for auction in Accra.

This decision follows a ruling from the Accra High Court’s Commercial Division, issued on June 12, 2024, due to legal proceedings against Essien.

The properties in question are located at Stephen Quarshie Crescent in East Legon, as well as House Number 9 and House Number 204/205 in Trassaco (Phase 2), Adjiringano, Accra.

Essien’s financial woes reportedly stem from substantial debts owed to various banks and financial institutions in Ghana.

An anonymous auctioneer hinted that bids for one of the mansions could range between $20 million to $30 million.

Essien’s illustrious football career began in France with clubs like Bastia and Olympique Lyonnais before achieving fame at Chelsea.

During his tenure with the English club, Essien earned multiple Premier League titles and the coveted UEFA Champions League trophy.

Essien, renowned for his illustrious career with clubs including Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan, is grappling with financial difficulties following his retirement from professional football.

At 41 years old, Essien has encountered significant financial challenges, highlighted by the court-ordered auction of his properties in Accra.

Former Chelsea left-back, Ryan Bertrand has officially retired from professional football as of June 18, 2024.

Bertrand, who began his career with Chelsea in 2007 after rising through the club’s youth ranks, made significant contributions during his tenure.

He notably played 57 matches for Chelsea, scoring two goals and providing two assists, and was part of the squad that secured prestigious titles including the UEFA Champions League and Europa League.

After leaving Chelsea in 2015 for Southampton in a €13.30 million transfer, Bertrand later joined Leicester City in 2021 on a free transfer.

His retirement announcement was made live on Sky Sports, marking the end of a career that also saw him earn 19 caps for the England national team.

Bertrand said, “I will be retiring from football. It’s been a little while but I get asked a lot of questions – ‘When are you coming back, what are you doing?’

“So, just to make that official I am retiring and very much looking forward to the next steps.”

Chidera Ejuke has broken new ground by becoming the first Nigerian player to sign for Spanish La Liga giants Sevilla.

The Super Eagles forward, known for his sporadic appearances with the national team, sealed a significant three-year deal that will see him in Sevilla colors until June 30, 2027.

The 26-year-old, formerly of Gombe United, transitioned to Sevilla following the expiration of his contract with CSKA Moscow earlier this summer.

Ejuke’s career trajectory was influenced by Russia’s prolonged conflict with Ukraine, leading to loan spells at Hertha Berlin in Germany during the 2022-2023 season and subsequently at Royal Antwerp in Belgium’s Pro League.

During his time at Royal Antwerp, Ejuke impressed with 29 appearances and 4 goals, showcasing his talent on the European stage.

His move to Sevilla, finalized on Monday, February 17, represents a pivotal moment for the Nigerian international, who aims to cement his place in the national team’s future plans.

Ejuke said, “It is special to be the first Nigerian here. I think I feel good being part of this team and I am looking forward to seeing what I can contribute to the team,”

He told Sevilla’s official website, “I also hope to be able to back with Nigeria, because obviously it’s always nice to represent your country, so I hope it’s time to do it again and I’m also very excited.”