After years abroad honing his coaching skills, Ghana legend Michael Essien finds himself on the cusp of a long-awaited homecoming.
The former Chelsea star is being considered for the Black Stars assistant coaching role as Ghana aims to revive its footballing fortunes after recent disappointments.
At 41, Essien has transitioned smoothly into coaching after an illustrious playing career.
He began his second act at FC Nordsjaelland in 2020, expressing delight at joining the Danish club’s staff to complete 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.”
FC Nordsjælland sports director, Jan Laursen explained why Norsdjaelland put their trust in Essien in the first place.
“Michael left a very positive impression here during his visit and we continued the dialogue with him after he had left. 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,” he told the club’s website.
In the ensuing years, Essien diligently obtained his UEFA A and Elite Youth A credentials while getting valuable hands-on experience. FC Nordsjaelland’s esteemed reputation for developing top coaches will have only sharpened his tactical mind.
With Ghana often appointing ex-players like Maxwell Konadu, Ibrahim Tanko, Kwasi Appiah, Didi Dramani, and CK Akonnor to assistant roles, Essien would continue that tradition.
Michael Essien is in the running for assistant coach of the Black Stars#3Sports pic.twitter.com/zqwZRtw2Xr
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According to former teammate Fatau Dauda, his presence inspired teams despite Essien’s understated nature. Dauda recalls Essien going out of his way to mentor new players and offer encouragement during crucial moments like the World Cup playoffs.
“I remember the World Cup play-off with Egypt he was with us. Though he was reserved, he encouraged us. He doesn’t speak much but when he speaks it makes an impact.”
“Whenever a local player or new player joined the Black Stars, Essien will go out of his way to help the players settle. Nordsjaelland provides the best environment for young coaches to learn so I believe it’ll make him special,” he told 3Sports.
Now Essien appears ready to bring his growing expertise back home. While he stated last year that he wasn’t ready for the top job, joining the Black Stars as an assistant would be a perfect fit. Essien’s wealth of experience and pedigree would instantly command the squad’s respect.
Reuniting with the national team could reinvigorate Essien’s coaching journey. In turn, Ghana would benefit enormously from his leadership, work ethic, and knowledge of the game’s highest levels.
With former Dortmund manager Otto Addo reportedly in line to lead the Black Stars, he and Essien would form a Ghanaian dream team primed to lift the nation’s spirits after AFCON heartbreak.
As the GFA revamps the backroom staff, Essien’s return perfectly blends local understanding with European coaching expertise. Over a decade since his last appearance for the Black Stars, Essien has the chance to write a glorious new chapter in Ghana’s football history.
By Owuraku Ampofo | 3Sports | Ghana