Aaron Essel

Aaron Essel (born 30 July 2005) is a Ghanaian professional footballer who plays as defender for USL Championship side Sacramento Republic, on loan from Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone, and is also a part of the Ghana national team.

Early life Essel attended St. John's School, Sekondi, where he captained and played for the school's football team, leading them to the final of the Western Regional Inter-schools and Colleges Super Zonals Boys Soccer Competition but lost the tournament to Takoradi Technical Institute via a 6–5 scoreline on penalty shootouts after a goalless draw at the end of extra time.

Career In March 2021, Essel joined Bechem United during the second round transfer period for the 2020–21 season. He played the full 90 minutes in their comfortable 4–0 home victory over rivals Aduana Stars on 18 April 2021.

International career In May 2025, Essel was called up to the Ghana national team for the 2025 Unity Cup.