Ghana legend Michael Essien being considered for Black Stars assistant role

After spending years overseas perfecting his coaching abilities, Ghanaian icon Michael Essien is about to make his much anticipated return home.

The former Chelsea player is a candidate for the assistant coaching position with the Black Stars, as Ghana looks to turn around its footballing fortunes following a string of setbacks.

Essien, 41, made a seamless transition from a stellar playing career to coaching.

2020 saw the start of his second act with FC Nordsjaelland, where he expressed happiness to be joining the staff to finish off his licenses.

“I am delighted to have joined FC Nordsjaelland coaching staff as part of my development towards my full coaching license. I will also be assisting the players on and off the pitch as part of my role.”

Jan Laursen, the sports director of FC Nordsjaelland, gave an explanation for why the team initially trusted Essien.

“During his stay, Michael made a really good impact, and we kept in touch with him after he departed. He stated on the club’s website, “We felt he was excited by what he experienced here through our philosophy, the people he met at the club, and that our environment inspired him.”

Over the next few years, Essien worked hard to get his Elite Youth A and UEFA A certifications while gaining invaluable practical experience. Given FC Nordsjaelland’s illustrious history of producing elite coaches, his tactical acumen will only have improved.

Former players like Maxwell Konadu, Ibrahim Tanko, Kwasi Appiah, Didi Dramani, and CK Akonnor are frequently assigned to assistant positions in Ghana, Essien would continue that tradition.