Lyon midfielder Michael Essien has finally completed his move to Chelsea and admitted he is embarrassed by the size of the fee thee Premier League champions paid for his services.
Essien said he does not believe he is worth the fee Chelsea have paid to buy him from Lyon.
“I know what I’m worth as a footballer and it’s clear that I’m not worth £26m but that’s football business,” he told French magazine France Football.
“As soon as Chelsea expressed interest, I wanted to go,” added Essien.
Lyon, who were keen to retain Essien, evenetually had to agree to his release when the Ghanaian international refused to sign a new deal with the French champions and then refused to play for them.
The move came after a protracted transfer saga which culminated in his sale for £24.4m.
“It was impossible for me to stay (at Lyon),” he said.
“I can perfectly understand (Lyon president) Jean-Michel Aulas. He defended his club’s interests but I defended mine.
“I’m very excited to be joining Chelsea. It’s a dream come true.”
Essien is hopeful he may make his Premiership bow on Sunday against Arsenal.
“Maybe I’ll play a few minutes,” he said.
