TSG Hoffenheim midfielder Diadie Samassekou has listed Ghanaian international Michael Essien as one of the midfielders he looks up to.
The Malian international has been impressive for the German Bundesliga this season which has given him a lot of attention.
In an interview with Goal, the defensive midfielder has opened up on the players he takes inspiration from.
“Now, when I see what [Kante] is doing, [I can say] he’s an inspiration for me, of course. He was only known late, so when he was playing in the Premier League, with Leicester City, I was already in Europe”, the former Red Bull Salzburg man said.
He continued, “[My role models] start with the players from my country, Mahamadou Diarra and Seydou Keita. They have done a great job for the country, and also the African image in Europe.
“We also have other good midfielders like Michael Essien, who showed how the midfielder’s spirit should be.
“There are a lot of players. I’ve had a lot of idols from teenage years till now, and I’m trying to follow in their steps.”
Michael Essien is adored all over the world and is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders to have ever played the game.
He had successful stints with Real Madrid, AC Milan, Olympic Lyon, and is a legend at English Premier League side Chelsea FC.