I went into coaching to avoid depression, says Michael Essien

Former Ghana international, Michael Essien has opened up on his decision to go into coaching following his retirement from professional football.

The 41-year-old holds a UEFA License A coaching certificate and has been working as an Individual Player Coach at Danish club FC Nordsjaelland.

Speaking in an interview with Joy Sports, Essien revealed that he never intended to enter coaching after his career, but soon made the decision because he did not want to be at home depressed after his career.

"When I was playing, if you asked me if I wanted to go into coaching, I would say no," the former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder said.

"But as time passed, I started thinking: I’ve been in football all my life; why not take up coaching and acquire my licenses to still stay in football and be around the players?

"I took this decision to go into coaching because I didn’t want to be one of these ex-players who finish their careers, go home, and start thinking about what they want to do, only to get into depression," he added.

Michael Essien announced his retirement in 2020 having won Champions League, Premier League titles, FA Cup and League trophies with Chelsea.

He also played for Bastia, Lyon, AC Milan and other clubs.