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Essien joins Real on loan

Image: Michael Essien: Season-long deal

Chelsea have confirmed midfielder Michael Essien has joined Real Madrid on a season-long loan.

Midfielder reunited with Mourinho at the Bernabeu

Chelsea have confirmed midfielder Michael Essien has joined Real Madrid on a season-long loan. The Ghanaian was expected to move after being left out of his club's squad for their Super Cup defeat by Atletico Madrid on Friday night. Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo confirmed Essien was set to leave on loan but the Italian also ruled out the possibility of a move to Arsenal. Instead, the 29-year-old has moved to Primera Liga champions Real, where he will be reunited with former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. A statement on Chelsea's official website read: "Chelsea Football Club today (Friday) announces that Michael Essien has joined Real Madrid on a season-long loan.