Michael Essien was widely tipped to be one of Africa's next rising stars. Essien made his competitive senior debut in the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco on 21 January 2002. but had played for Ghana in a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt on 4 January 2002. On 16 May 2006, Essien was selected to be part of the team that represented Ghana at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. He played in midfield with team captain Stephen Appiah and Sulley Muntari. Essien played in Ghana's 0–2 defeat to Italy, their 2–0 victory over the Czech Republic, and the 2–1 victory
Emmanuel "Mannie" Essien Emmanuel "Mannie" Essien Emmanuel Essien (born 26 March 1977) is a Nigerian radio presenter, voice over artist, singer, compere, and former actor. He was the host of the "Good Morning Nigeria" show on Nigerian radio station, 96.9 Cool FM, in Lagos. In March 2015, he was nominated for Hollywood's Nickelodeon Kids Choice Award in USA for best Nigerian On Air Personality. Essien was born in Jos Plateau in Northern Nigeria to retired principal Obong Jo. The last of six children, Mannie grew up in many parts of Nigeria, including Gombe and Bauchi state. He was in Gombe state from 1978