Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien has signed a new two-year contract extension with Danish Superliga side FC Nordsjælland, committing his future to the club until at least 2027
Essien, 42, has been an integral part of the FC Nordsjælland technical team since joining in 2020, initially as a player-coach before transitioning fully to coaching.
Over the past five years, he has established himself as a vital influence behind the scenes, focusing on player development and helping young talents.
A number of these talents have been from the club’s Right to Dream Academy in West Africa who have over the years transitioned smoothly into first-team football.
Holding a UEFA A License and having completed specialized UEFA courses in football management and organization, Essien brings both elite playing experience and a growing tactical acumen to his role. His background includes a distinguished playing career in the Champions League, Premier League and La Liga with clubs such as Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Lyon, as well as 59 caps for the Ghana national team,
Essien’s decision to extend his stay comes after he reportedly turned down an offer in 2024 to join Ghana’s national team as an assistant coach under Otto Addo, choosing instead to focus on his development in European club football.
Essien’s role as a player development coach is seen as a significant asset, particularly for the club’s young and diverse squad.
