Former Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien has opened up about his decision to reject the opportunity to serve as an assistant coach for the Black Stars.
Before Otto Addo was reappointed on a three-year deal in March 2024, following the dismissal of Chris Hughton, reports suggested that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) had approached Essien for the assistant coaching position. However, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star reportedly turned down the offer.
The GFA later confirmed John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann as assistant coaches for the senior national team.
Speaking about his decision, Essien, who is currently an assistant coach at Danish club FC Nordsjaelland, stated that he did not feel ready for the role.
“I would not say I refused, but I was just not ready for that job,” he told Sporty FM.
“I was approached by Otto Addo and the president [Kurt Okraku], but I felt I was not ready,” he added.
Despite missing out on winning a major trophy with the Black Stars, Essien remains optimistic about the team’s future.
“It’s sad I couldn’t win any trophy during my time with the Black Stars, but I am convinced the team will win a trophy soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, after Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Joseph Laumann was replaced by Desmond Ofei as one of the team’s assistant coaches.
