I rejected Black Stars assistant coaching role because I was not ready – Michael Essien

Former Ghana midfielder, Michael Essien has explained his decision to turn down Black Stars’ assistant coaching role.

Prior to the reappointment of Otto Addo on a three-year deal in March 2024 after the sacking of Chris Hughton, It was reported that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) was in talks with the former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder for the assistant coaching job.

However, Essien reportedly rejected the offer. The GFA subsequently announced John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann as the new assistant coaches for the senior national team.

Explaining his decision to turn down the offer, Essien, who now serves as FC Nordsjaelland’s assistant coach says he felt he was not 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.

Having played in the 2010 and 2015 AFCON finals, Essien beleives that the four-time African champions will soon win a trophy.

“It’s sad I couldn’t win any trophy during my playing with the Black Stars but I am convinced the team will win a trophy soon.”

Meanwhile, after Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Laumann has been replaced by Desmond Ofei.