Michael Essien explains decision to decline Black Stars assistant coaching job

Former Ghana international Michael Essien has shed light on why he turned down the opportunity to become the assistant coach of the Black Stars.

Ahead of Otto Addo’s reappointment on a three-year contract following the dismissal of Chris Hughton, reports emerged that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) had approached the ex-Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder for the role.

However, Essien declined the offer, leading to the appointments of John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann as assistant coaches.

Speaking on Sporty FM, Essien clarified that his decision was not a outright refusal but rather a matter of timing and readiness.

"I would not say I refused but I was just not ready for that job," he said.

"I was approached by Otto Addo and the president [Kurt Okraku] but I felt I was not ready," he added.

Currently serving as an assistant coach at Danish club FC Nordsjaelland, Essien remains optimistic about the future of the Black Stars.

Despite featuring in the 2010 and 2015 AFCON finals without securing a trophy, he believes Ghana’s long-awaited triumph is near.

"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, following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Desmond Ofei has replaced Joseph Laumann in the coaching setup.