Michael Osei, a former player and coach of Ghanaian football giants Asante Kotoko, has passed away at the age of 53.
The former midfielder, who had been battling a heart condition in recent months, reportedly experienced chest pains and was rushed to a hospital in London, where he sadly passed away.
Asante Kotoko confirmed the news of his death in a heartfelt tribute on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former player and coach Michael Osei, having sadly suffered with a heart condition in recent months.
The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and colleagues. Rest in peace, Michael,” the statement read.
Michael Osei rose to prominence in the early 1990s as a key player for Kotoko, where he played an instrumental role in the team’s success, helping them secure two Ghana Premier League titles.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former player and coach Michael Osei, having sadly suffered with a heart condition in recent months. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and colleagues.
Rest in peace, Michael. pic.twitter.com/zG9Vn4Onsc
— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) November 15, 2024
His talent and hard work earned him opportunities abroad, where he joined German sides Eintracht Frankfurt and Mainz 05, among others, during a respectable career in Europe.
After a short stint with Alemannia Haibach, a German lower-tier club, Osei retired from professional football in 2006.
Following his playing days, Osei transitioned into coaching, beginning as an assistant manager for FSV Frankfurt’s reserve team in Germany.
He later returned to Ghana, where he worked with New Edubiase and Kotoko, initially as an assistant coach.
In 2016, he took the reins as Kotoko’s head coach, leading the team to victory in the President’s Cup.
Awurade 🙏🏾…
“Scheiße”
“Yɛ nyɛ adwuma”…
Rest well Michael Osei 💔 pic.twitter.com/Myxez7rKrg
— KELVIN OWUSU ANSAH (@TheKelOwusu) November 15, 2024
He later managed Ghana Premier League sides Liberty Professionals and Star Madrid, earning a reputation for his tactical acumen and dedication to developing young talent.
Osei’s most recent managerial position was with Bibiani Gold Stars, where he served as head coach from 2021 to 2023.
Osei leaves behind a rich legacy in Ghanaian football as both a player and coach.
His contributions to Kotoko, both on and off the field, are fondly remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
His death has left a void in the football community, with tributes pouring in from across the country.
He is remembered not only for his achievements but also for his passion and commitment to the sport.
Michael Osei’s passing is a significant loss to Ghanaian football, and his impact on the game will be cherished for years to come.
