I acquired my coaching licenses to avoid depression after retirement – Michael Essien

Former Ghana international Michael Essien has revealed that he pursued coaching to avoid the depression that often follows retirement from football.The former Chelsea midfielder explained that earning his coaching license was his only option, as he didnt want to fall into post-career depression.Essien, who retired in 2020, immediately began working with Danish club Nordsjaelland as part of their coaching staff.He had already been working on his coaching certificates while still playing during the later years of his career.He told JoyNews, “I acquired my coaching licenses because I didnt want to fall into depression after retirement.”Since retiring, Essien has remained in Europe, with Denmark now being his home due to his role as Nordsjaellands assistant coach.He is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, a status he earned with his commanding presence on the field.Even when forced to play as a centre-back, he excelled, showcasing his versatility.Essien made over 500 club appearances and scored 58 goals, many of them during his time at Chelsea, where he became a household name.He also impressed during stints at Lyon, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Panathinaikos, and Persib Bandung, before retiring at Sabail.His illustrious career includes winning the Champions League, three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and two Ligue 1 titles.