Ghana Legend Michael Essien Reveals Why He Chose Coaching Over Politics

• Michael Essien has spoken about his preference for coaching football over politics
• The ex-Ghana international is still involved with sport after hanging up his boots
• Essien currently works as an assistant coach at Danish outfit FC Nordsjaelland

Former Ghana and Chelsea star, Michael Essien has revealed that being close to the pitch guided his decision to make a career of coaching following his retirement.

Essien also had opportunities to play a role in football administration but the 40-year-old disclosed his 'hatred' for politics would not have allowed him to flourish in that role.

The 2012 UEFA Champions League winner currently works as an assistant coach at Danish club, FC Nordsjaelland, as he gradually carves his path in coaching.

"What I hate in my life is politics. I don't think I will ever get involved at the political level," Essien told DW.

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"I'm doing my badges because I love being around the players on the pitch, and I stay very close to them, talking to them, giving them advice and stuff like that. It makes me happy, rather than sitting in the office or on the phone talking to people."

The ex-Real Madrid believes his generation of African players, many of whom have delved into coaching in Europe, are bound to reap success sooner rather than later.

"I think it's just a matter of time before you start seeing our generation of footballers becoming top-level coaches [in Europe]," he added.

Essien is working towards acquiring his UEFA Pro License after securing his UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth coaching certifications this year.

Essien acquires coaching license

Previously, Sports Brief reported on Essien's journey to becoming a coach taking a big step forward.

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The 40-year-old earned his UEFA A and Elite Youth A coaching licenses from Wales' Football Association.

Essien, who is an assistant coach at FC Nordsjaelland, shared excitement after completing the courses.

Essien predicts Nordsjaelland trio's future

Sports Brief has also reported on former Chelsea midfielder, Essien predicting a bright future for three African youngsters in Denmark.

The Ghanaian legend, who is coaching in Denmark with FC Nordsjaelland, has spotted three players he thinks are bound to be future stars.

According to a journalist, Essien named Ernest Numah, Ibrahim Osman (both of Ghana) and Ivorian, Mario Dorgeles as the players to watch.