Michael Essien
Michael Essien signed for AC Milan after leaving Chelsea in January [Reuters] Reuters

AC Milan's new signing Michael Essien has revealed that the the Italian club's new manager Clarence Seedorf was the reason behind for leaving Chelsea this month.

The Ghana international left the Stamford Bridge and completed his move to the San Siro after the Italian outfit agreed for the transfer of the midfielder with the west London club.

Essien has failed to feature regularly under Jose Mourinho, making only two starts in the Premier League for the Europa League winners. The midfielder has now urged to give his best and took an opportunity to thank the Blues owner Roman Abramovich, the former Real Madrid manager and Chelsea fans.

"I can't wait to play for Milan. Kaka and Balotelli are great players. I joined Milan because of Seedorf. I spoke with him two days ago. Seedorf is a great man and I hope that he will also become a great manager," Essien explained.

"I'm happy to be at Milan. They're a great club. I will do my best for them. I want to thank [Chelsea chairman] Roman Abramovich, the squad and Mourinho, who gave me the chance to join Milan," he added.

Essien's move to Italy could see him get more playing time under Seedorf, which could improve his chances of making it to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with the national squad.

I can't wait to play for Milan. Kaka and Balotelli are great players. I joined Milan because of Seedorf. I spoke with him two days ago.
- Michael Essien

Meanwhile, after convincing Essien to join the Serie A giants in the ongoing transfer window, Seedorf is delighted to have signed the Ghanaian. The Milan manager claims the addition of the 31-year-old midfielder will add value to the team after claiming him to be a warrior on the pitch.

"I know him very well. He's a great player, a warrior I think to use in the midfield. He will give also bring big values on and off the pitch. He's a guy with personality that will be useful for the team," Sky Sports quoted Milan manager as saying.

Milan have endured a poor run in the league this season and are 11<sup>th in the Serie A table with 25 points after 20 games. Seedorf replaced Massimiliano Allegri, who was sacked earlier this month. The new manager won his first game 1-0 against Hellas Verona as Milan manager.