Former Ghana striker, Prince Tagoe has backed Michael Essien's decision to distance himself from the Black Stars coaching job.
The former Chelsea midfielder is eligible to coach at the highest level following the acquisition of UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth Coach licenses.
The 40-year-old declared a few days ago his unwillingness to coach the Black Stars in the future according to Nigerian journalist Lolade Adewuyi.
On my way to Naples, had a long layover in Denmark where I met a legend of the game, Michael Essien. He’s now a coach at FC Nordsjaelland in the Danish Superliga. He recently got his UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth Coach licenses. Future Black Stars coach? He said not interested. pic.twitter.com/2Oigt1LSQw
— Lolade Adewuyi (@Jololade) April 18, 2023
However, Tagoe believes Essien’s decision to stay away from the national team job was out of bitterness following the treatment he suffered from Ghanaians in his playing days.
According to him Essien’s rich experience could help Ghana’s football in a good way however, he believes it is always right for Essien to reject any offer to coach the Black Stars.
“I personally think Ghanaians didn’t treat him well. He used to play his heart out for Ghana when he was in great form but when a few injuries took a toll on his performance we rejected him because we got the likes of Anthony Annan," he told Angel TV.
“Essien wasn’t cherished anymore by Ghanaians. He is a player who has a high profile like Stephen Appiah and these are the people who can help Ghana’s football. Essien was absolutely not treated well and he is right if he says he doesn’t want to go near the Black Stars,” he added.
Tagoe featured together with Essien at the Blak Starlets and Black Satellites. The former AC Milan and Real Madrid went on to play for the Black Stars where he made 58 appearances and scored nine goals.
After winning multiple titles, including the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League, Essien announced his retirement from professional football in 2020.
Essien is now a coach at FC Nordjaelland in Denmark.