Chelsea FC: Greatest XI from the Roman Abramovich era

LONDON - SEPTEMBER 13: Frank Lampard of Chelsea celebrates scoring the first goal with Arjen Robbenduring the UEFA Champions League Group G match between Chelsea and RSC Anderlecht at Stamford Bridge on September 13, 2005 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Radford/Getty Images) /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 09: Michael Ballack of Chelsea in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Wigan Athletic at Stamford Bridge on May 9, 2010 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /

Central Midfield: Michael Ballack- 2006-2010

The German footballer of the year (three times) and widely known as of the best midfielders in the history of the game signed on a free transfer to Chelsea.

His strength, stature and ability to create made him a perfect fit for Mourinho’s physically dominant side. He exuded calmness and authority on the pitch and was one of Chelsea’s leaders along with Didier Drogba and Terry.

The former Bayern Munich man won the FA Cup and the League Cup in his debut season at Chelsea in 2006.

Ballack made 166 appearances for the club scoring 25 goals and made 24 assists.

He won the Premier League title under coach Carlo Ancelotti in the 2009/10 season.

In 2010 he left the club despite Ancelotti wanting him to stay as the owner Roman Abramovich was only offering a one year extension to his contract citing concerns with his age.

Ballack joined his old club Bayern Leverkusen where he played until he finally retired in 2012.

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