Coach Djadjang Nurdjaman of Persib Bandung has assessed new recruits Michael Essien and revealed the player is overweight.
The new marquee player of Persib has been asked to be put on a diet to lose the excessive weight.
The reason for Essien’s weight problem is that the player hasn’t been in action since leaving Greek club Panathinaikos. Djadjang hopes that Essien could get in shape prior to the kick-off of the 2017 Liga 1.
Meanwhile, team doctor Rafi Ghani said he would try to figure out Essien’s ideal weight by caloric needs. However, Rafi believes Essien can maintain a good physical condition.
“I have not seen in more details, I will have to go through the numbers. So I will wait for the report of ISMC [Indonesia Sports Medicine Center],” said Rafi.
Persib’s 25 first team players for the coming season, including Essien, will be unveiled to the public on Sunday (2/4) at Siliwangi Stadium.