Ivory Coast boss Herve Renard is confident that Didier Drogba has the motivation and personality to be a great coach, and that the African football legend can serve as an example to his continent’s aspiring managers.
The Chelsea forward retired from international duty after the 2014 World Cup without lifting the AFCON; but his compatriots have reached the semi-finals of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 36-year-old return to Stamford Bridge is expected to lead to a coaching role, and Renard believes Drogba would be an inspirational leader.
“That would make others take up coaching too,” said Renard, referring to the lack of African coaches at these finals, with only one – Florent Ibenge of DR Congo – in the last four.
“Drogba can make a big difference. The man is a monument.”
The French football manager also went on to explain the importance of adopting a rule in Africa which will encourage indigenous coaches.
"For the national team of any country, there should be coaches from that country. It would be great to introduce this rule.
"This is my opinion. Now I am working against myself by saying that because I have worked in a lot of different countries - but I think it would be good.
"Are African coaches capable? I simply say, look at the Cup of Nations record of Shehata and Keshi. That tells you all you need to know."