Former Ghanaian footballer Charles Taylor has weighed in on the ongoing discussions surrounding the appointment of the new Black Stars coach, urging the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to prioritize Michael Essien over Otto Addo. Addo, currently a talent coach at Borussia Dortmund, has been widely speculated as the frontrunner for the position following the dismissal of Chris Hughton, who oversaw a lackluster 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Taylor, speaking candidly in an interview with Onua Sports, expressed his reservations about Addo’s suitability for the role. Despite Addo’s past success in leading the team to the 2022 World Cup, Taylor remains unconvinced, asserting, “Nothing good will come from Otto Addo. He has coached the team before, and there is nothing positive you could pinpoint from his first stint.”
Challenging the notion that past World Cup qualification alone should warrant Addo’s reappointment, Taylor questioned, “Does that mean we should consider all past coaches who qualified us for the World Cup?” Instead, Taylor advocated for a fresh approach, proposing Michael Essien as a potential candidate for the coaching position.
Backing his recommendation, Taylor highlighted Essien’s credentials, emphasizing his recent acquisition of UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth coaching licenses. Taylor believes that Essien, alongside former Black Stars players Stephen Appiah and Laryea Kingston, possesses the necessary attributes to revitalize Ghanaian football.
“We must know that the right people are available to revive Ghana football,” Taylor stated emphatically. “I would suggest that we consider Michael Essien for the coaching job. Essien together with Stephen Appiah and Laryea Kingston are bold former players who will stand their ground and instill discipline among the playing body.”
As discussions continue within the GFA regarding the next Black Stars coach, Taylor’s endorsement of Essien adds another dimension to the conversation, advocating for a fresh perspective and leadership approach to reignite Ghana’s footballing ambitions.
