Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien has opened up about his enduring connection with Tom Vernon, the founder of the Right to Dream Academy, which has been instrumental in developing some of Ghana’s finest football talents.

Essien, now an assistant coach at Danish side FC Nordsjaelland—owned by Vernon—credited the relationship as a significant factor in his transition to coaching.

Right to Dream is renowned for nurturing players like Mohammed Kudus, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Ernest Nuamah, who have made their mark on the international stage.

In an interview with the BBC, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star recounted:

"I’ve known the founder, Tom Vernon, for a very long time, since I was 17 or 18. I always kept in contact with him, and he followed my football career. When I stopped playing, he just messaged me and said, 'What are you doing?'

"I said, 'I think I’m done playing.' And he said, 'OK, maybe you should come and look around the place.' He told me about the whole project. I came, and it was a nice environment. So I said, 'Yeah, I'd love to work here.'

Essien expressed admiration for the academy’s focus on youth development and its supportive environment:

"I love how they develop their boys here, giving very young boys the opportunity to experience professional football. It's calmer; the environment is very nice and very healthy. Everyone is ready to help whenever you need."

Reflecting on the challenges of coaching the new generation of players, he remarked:

"This generation can be quite difficult."

Essien’s collaboration with Vernon and his role at Nordsjaelland underscore his commitment to youth development and his transition into football management.

His presence at the club adds invaluable experience and inspiration to its ambitious project.