Ghana and former Chelsea star, Michael Essien has signed a one-year deal with Indonesian club, Persib Bandung in a shocking move that has attracted massive global attention on Tuesday night.
The 34-year-old who last played for Greece side Panathinaikos would be wearing his favourite No.5 jersey for his new club.
The move by the Indonesian club forms part of efforts to improve upon their league with well-known players as they hope to host the World Cup in few years to come.
Essien's contract could be extended as the player hopes to end his illustrious career at his new home after playing for the likes of Real Madrid and AC Milan.
Essien made over 250 appearances in all competitions during his time at Stamford Bridge, spending a season on loan at Real Madrid before finally leaving in 2014.
Speaking of the move to Persib, Essien revealed his desire to be the catalyst for more of the game’s global stars to make the switch to Indonesia.
He told the club’s official website: “I hope I am the prelude to other world players moving to Indonesia."