Jose Mourinho Discloses Why He Asked Michael Essien to Stop Calling Him 'Daddy': Video

• Jose Mourinho and Michael Essien worked together at Chelsea
• The Portuguese coach and the Ghanaian star had a strong bond
• Essien won multiple titles with Mourinho in his time at the Blues

Former Chelsea and AS Roma manager, Jose Mourinho, has opened up on his affection for African players and his relationship with Michael Essien.

The Ghanaian star and the Portuguese gaffer had a father-son relationship, having worked together at both Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Essien often referred to Mourinho as his father, having worked with him for several years of his career.

In an interview with ex-Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand's FIVE podcast, Mourinho disclosed that he had to stop Essien from calling him dad.

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"To be honest, I love Africans and especially their players. The African player is very loyal. Some players call me 'dad', like Michael Essien, even though they are almost my age!" the Special One laughed.

Mourinho spoke about the love he receives from Africa due to his strong relationships with players like Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto'o, and Sulley Muntari.

"It's simple, I can't go to Africa anymore! The supporters are crazy, everywhere! I coached Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou who is Ivorian, Samuel Eto'o from Cameroon, Michael Essien, Muntari from Ghana, John Obi Mikel... I've had guys from all over Africa.

"Every time I go [to Africa], I can't walk on the street. People love me so much! Even in Europe where there are a lot of Africans, they adore me," Mourinho stated.

The Portuguese tactician achieved much success with these players, winning two UEFA Champions League titles with African players taking a role in his team, per UEFA.

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Mourinho's best days were with the likes of Essien, Drogba, and John Mikel Obi at Chelsea.

Essien celebrates Simon Adingra

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Essien extended congratulations to Simon Adingra following his outstanding display in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Brighton and Hove Albion winger delivered a brace of assists as Ivory Coast came from a goal down to beat Nigeria's Super Eagles last Sunday.

Adingra was coached by Essien during his time in Denmark with FC Nordsjaelland before he moved to England, and was one of AFCON's standout stars.