Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien says although he sometimes misses his playing days, he is delighted to be a key part of Fc Nordsjælland’s coaching team.
Essien was always regarded as one of the best midfielders in his time as a footballer for both club and country, and his coaching career is equally shaping nicely in Denmark.
Speaking in an interview with Right to Dream about his progress in coaching so far, Essien expressed his delight with improving young talents at Nordsjælland, but equally admitted that actively playing still crosses his mind.
“I think it is more easy when you prepare yourself. Because I started my license before I stopped playing. So once I stopped, I got into the field of coaching. The coaching aspect is very different from playing football. I’m focused on coaching. Of course sometimes I miss it but once you’re done, you’re done”.
The 41-year-old also touched on his time at the Danish club, insisting that impacting and preparing emerging talents remains a delight for him on a personal level.
“In general, just happy to be part of this organization’s project. This organization has been one of the best I’ve been in because we try to prepare the boys for their football and the information we give them will help them move to the next stage of their career,” he said.
One of Essien’s traits that made him stand out is his humility, and although he often likes to give credit to others than himself, the former Chelsea man says that naturally, he is ‘just a happy person’.
The former Black Stars midfielder also sent a message to young players actively competing in football, believing hard work and humility as the way to reach the highest level in their career.
“I think generally, I’m just a happy person. I like to stay positive in every situation. When you come in to work, people give you positive energy, and that creates room to work. I like living a very quiet life. Stay humble, be very respectful and put in the hard work. That’s my advice to every young player,” he added.
Essien is revered for his remarkable exploits which as he won 11 titles in his playing days, while being named the BBC African footballer of the year in 2006.
He also featured in the CAF team of the year on four occasions(2005,2006,2008,2009), and was adjudged Ligue 1’s player of the year in 2005.
The post I’m focused on coaching although I miss playing football – Essien first appeared on 3News.
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