DIDIER DROGBA turned down a “perfect” coaching job with Chelsea because he has his heart set on taking over as president of the Ivory Coast FA .
The Blues legend confirmed that he had the chance to link up with former team-mate Frank Lampard at Stamford Bridge this summer.
Didier Drogba has chosen his country over a ‘perfect’ role at ChelseaCredit: AP:Associated Press
Drogba, 41, is eyeing his next move after announcing his retirement following a short spell with Phoenix Rising last year.
And he met club representatives to outline his plans if he is picked to replace Augustin Sidy Diallo.
He said: “I had an offer to stay at Chelsea where everything would be perfect and conditions are met.
“But I want to help Ivorian football because I love it!
“I am a leader, and my vision is bigger than just the simple role of being a coach. A coach has an impact on a club – but I want to have an impact on an entire nation.
“I want us to re-think football, with a nationwide vision, so we can develop the game here. The Ivory Coast has a glorious footballing past.
“The funds are in place, together with talent and potential, but they are under-exploited.
“There are some very competent people in the Ivory Coast who can work with me on this project.”
Drogba led The Elephants to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2015 but his country failed to qualify for the World Cup in Russia.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
