Former Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien has revealed that he is not yet ready to take on a major coaching role, including with the Black Stars of Ghana, despite being approached for the position of assistant coach.
Essien, who currently serves as an assistant manager at Danish club Nordsjaelland FC, explained that while he has been offered opportunities to join the Black Stars coaching staff, he feels he still needs more experience before taking on such responsibilities.
The legendary Chelsea player emphasized the stress involved in managing a national team, including leading training sessions, addressing the media, and handling various other duties.
“For now, I’m not considering being a head coach; it’s too stressful. Being the main man with all the media and cameras in your face is definitely not for me. But you never know. Maybe at some point, I would love to do it if that time comes,” Essien told Fentuo Tahiru of JoyNews when asked about his decision to turn down the Black Stars coaching job.
Essien, who completed his UEFA License A coaching certification in 2023, has been gaining valuable experience with Nordsjaelland since 2020. He indicated that while he is open to the idea of a head coaching role in the future, he prefers to focus on building his skills for now.
The 42-year-old, who retired from professional football in 2020, enjoyed a distinguished playing career, representing top European clubs such as Lyon, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan. His nine-year tenure at Chelsea cemented his status as a club legend, and he continues to build on that legacy in his coaching career.
Essien was considered for the Black Stars coaching role in March 2024, but the Ghana Football Association ultimately appointed Otto Addo. Essien has remained focused on his development, with plans to take on greater challenges once he feels fully prepared.Mich
