Former Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien believes that footballers who were active during his playing days will eventually emerge as excellent coaches if they take that step in their profession after retirement.
Essien, who was a crucial player for Chelsea, has turned his attention to coaching, having received his UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth coaching licenses, which allow him to manage at the highest level. The 40-year-old is making strides towards his ambition and is currently stationed in Denmark, where he works for FC Nordsjaelland.
He is confident that it is right for himself and other colleagues to engage in coaching and believes it won’t be long before their impact is felt in the football world. “I think it’s just a matter of time before you start seeing our generation of footballers becoming top-level coaches [in Europe]. If you are smart enough and you have a passion for the game and still want to do something in and around the sport, the opportunities will come,” he told DW.
However, he advised football fans to lower their expectations and remain patient for great players who have transitioned into coaching. According to him, it is not a guarantee for a great player to be automatically a great coach after retirement.
“People think that because you’ve been a professional player at the highest levels, it is easy to get into coaching, but it’s totally different,” he said. “That’s why I have managed to take my time and take it day by day.”
Essien played under great coaches like Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti during his time at Chelsea and Real Madrid. After winning multiple titles, including the Champions League and the Premier League thrice, Essien hung up his boots in 2020.
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