Real Madrid midfielder Michael Essien claims the Spanish La Liga is the most competitive league in the world and superior to the English Premier League.

The 29-year-old moved to the Santiago Bernabeu on a season-long loan deal on transfer deadline day from Chelsea.

Essien made his La Liga debut last Monday and lasted the entire duration in the 2-0 win at Rayo Vallecano.

He is expected to play a key role in Sunday's clash against Deportivo La Coruna.

Essien seems to have settled in at the club and but admitted it has not been a smooth transition for him.

"The Spanish League is one of the most important and toughest Leagues in Europe," Essien told the club's official website.

"Many people speak of the Premier League as the best, but the Spanish League is more fun. You play more football and you score more goals.

"The fans enjoy it. I am really looking forward to having a great season and to defending our title."