Wayne Rooney x Michael Essien: Ghana’s Dream, Suárez Drama & PL Wars | The Wayne Rooney Show

Could an African nation finally win the World Cup? How close did Ghana come to making history? Wayne Rooney and Michael Essien relive glory, heartbreak and unforgettable battles From Ghana's unforgettable rise at the 2006 World Cup to the heartbreak of Luis Suárez's infamous handball in 2010, Michael Essien reflects on carrying the hopes of a nation, the pressure of football's biggest stage and why Ghana still believe their greatest achievement is still to come. The pair also revisit the brutal battles between Manchester United and Chelsea, discuss José Mourinho's winning mentality, and reveal why facing each other was one of the toughest challenges of their careers. 00:00 - Intro 00:28 – When Rooney first met Essien 02:05 – Excitement around the World Cup 03:54 – Memories of playing for Ghana 06:03 – What made Ghana’s 2006 World Cup special? 09:26 – Essien’s character in the dressing room 10:25 – Missing out on the 2010 World Cup 11:45 – Uruguay quarter‑finals 2010 14:16 – Pressure: club football vs international football 15:48 – Can an African nation win a World Cup? 18:54 – Ghana players to watch 19:09 – Semenyo - one to watch? 23:07 – Football now vs Rooney/Essien era 24:30 – Playing against Rooney 28:23 – Thoughts on Kobbie Mainoo Follow more on the BBC Sport app, iPlayer and Sounds. ============= Find us here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBCMOTD X: https://x.com/BBCMOTD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbcfootball/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bbcsport #bbcfootball #FIFAWorldCupOnYT