Former Chelsea legend Michael Essien says he has ventured into coaching to help the "next generation".
The iconic 37-year-old has joined Danish side FC Nordsjalland as a player-coach for the 2020-21 season.
The former Real Madrid and AC Milan combative enforcer has joined FC Nordsjaelland coaching staff as part of his development towards acquiring his full coaching licence.
And he says he's motivated by a desire to help the next generation.
“I never thought I would be a coach when I was playing,” says Essien. “But I feel now I have a lot to give to the younger generation coming up, so I took the decision to learn more about being a coach and to explore this pathway.”
Essien has joined the staff in an assistant role and participate in training sessions alongside the players to help implement the drills and ideas.
In addition, the former Lyon player will contribute to video analysis and 'group evaluations' following each training session.
His new position has linked him up with compatriot Mas-Ud Didi Dramani as a member of the coaching staff.