Consequently, the four-time Africa champions, who have consistently participated in Africa's biggest competition, will be absent from the AFCON for the first time in two decades.
In a recent interview with Sporty FM, a surprised Essien urged Ghana fans to put the AFCON behind them ahead of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
"I would say I was surprised we didn't make it to the AFCON, but there's a whole lot going on with the Black Stars," Essien said as per Morden Ghana.com.
"It is sad but we have to move on. What has happened has happened, and sometimes it's better not to qualify than to just add to the numbers.
"If you qualify, you have to compete.''
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The 35th edition of AFCON is set to occur in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026.
Ghana will soon be in action as they take on Chad in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday, followed by a match against Madagascar on Monday, March 24.