Hometown: Takoradi, Ghana
Nationality: Ghana
Previous Club: St. Johnstone FC
Joined Republic FC: February 25, 2026 (transfer)
Career Bio
Essel began his professional career in his home country of Ghana and featured for Bechem United FC of the Ghana Premier League from 2021-2024, where he made 68 appearances. In 2024, he signed with Scottish Premiership side St. Johnstone FC. All across competitions – including league play, Challenge Cup, and League Cup, Essel made 20 appearances and added a goal and an assist.
The 20-year-old spent the 2025 season in the U.S. on loan to MLS NEXT Pro side North Texas SC. In 17 appearances, he recorded two goals and one assist and ranked second on the team with an impressive 86% passing accuracy. He also converted his three attempts for North Texas in penalty shootout victories during the season.
Essel continues to flourish on the international stage as well. He has featured at multiple age levels in the Africa Cup of Nations, most recently with the U-20 team last May. Later that month, he earned his first call up to Ghana’s senior National Team for an international friendly against Nigeria earned his first cap.
