Michael Essien‘s flirtations with Manchester United are well fabled, back in 2005 the man labelled as ‘The Bison’ said:
“I had always dreamed of playing in Europe and, as a boy, my team were Manchester United. When they offered me a one-week trial I just couldn’t believe it, I was so happy. I remember being there and thinking ‘Wow, this is the biggest club in the world’. My biggest hero was Roy Keane. I just loved the way he used to play, his attitude and commitment. I still try to play like him now and maybe people compare us as I play a similar holding role in midfield as he used to. At the end of the trial, the club said they really liked me and wanted to sign me. But they could not sort out a work permit and the move never happened.”
“I had two trials at United, but I was seen as too small. I think Sir Alex was looking for a certain type of player and I wasn’t the one then.”