Ghanaian teenager Caleb Yirenkyi has expressed deep admiration for Michael Essien’s role at FC Nordsjaelland, highlighting the Ghanaian legend’s quiet influence on the club’s young players.
The 19-year-old midfielder, who joined the Danish side in 2024 after graduating from the Right to Dream Academy, described Essien as a key figure in his development.
Essien has been an assistant coach at Nordsjaelland since 2023, where his presence has been instrumental in guiding a new generation of talent.
“Coach Essien brings something special to the team,” Yirenkyi told 3Sports. “He’s someone we all look up to; not just for what he’s achieved in football, but how he carries himself. You learn just by being around him.”
Yirenkyi praised Essien’s ability to connect with players and make a quiet but powerful impact, both in training and in day-to-day interactions.
“He can coach and impact everyone. He’s very important for us. We’re lucky to have him,” Yirenkyi said. “The way he treats everyone, it makes a difference. You feel supported and pushed to improve.”
Essien’s transition from global football icon to youth-focused coach has been marked by a commitment to nurturing talent; an approach that aligns seamlessly with the ethos of both FC Nordsjaelland and the Right to Dream Academy.
Having played under some of football’s top tacticians like José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, Essien now channels that elite-level experience into his coaching.
Yirenkyi, who recently made an eye-catching debut for the Black Stars against Nigeria in the Unity Cup, is considered one of the standout prospects at Nordsjaelland.
With the steady hand of a legend like Essien helping guide his path, the midfielder looks poised for a bright future in European and international football.
