Former Ghanaian football star Michael Essien has shed light on his decision to join Danish club FC Nordsjælland as part of their coaching team. Speaking to the BBC, Essien recounted how the club’s owner, Tom Vernon, played a pivotal role in introducing him to the project after his retirement from playing football.
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“When I stopped playing, he just messaged me and said, ‘What are you doing?’ I replied, ‘I think I’m done playing.’ And he said, ‘OK, maybe you should come and look around the place,’” Essien revealed.
Essien’s visit to the club turned out to be a defining moment. “He told me about the whole project. I came, and it was a nice environment. So I said, ‘Yeah, I’d love to work here.’”
The Chelsea legend highlighted his admiration for the club’s youth development philosophy, which prioritizes nurturing young talent and giving them professional opportunities. “I love how they develop their boys here, giving very young boys the opportunity to experience professional football. That was one of the reasons I chose to be here,” he said.
Essien also emphasized the club’s serene and supportive atmosphere as another factor in his decision. “It’s calmer; the environment is very nice and very healthy. Everyone is ready to help whenever you need. This generation can be quite difficult,” he added.
Essien’s role at Nordsjælland underscores his transition from a celebrated playing career to shaping the next generation of football talents in a club that aligns with his values.
