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Aaron Essel, a defender, makes his Black Stars debut in the Unity Cup loss to Nigeria.

During Wednesday night’s 2-1 loss to Nigeria in the Unity Cup semifinal at the GTech Community Stadium in London, young defender Aaron Essel made his senior debut for the Black Stars.

READ ALSO: Black Stars coach Otto Addo awaits unpaid salaries

Defender Aaron Essel makes Black Stars debut in Unity Cup

Head coach Otto Addo gave the 19-year-old a starting position after he had played for Ghana’s U20 team in the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Egypt last month. He received his first senior call-up after an outstanding run of play that led to his inclusion.

Early in the game, Essel showed promise while starting in a three-man defense. But after suffering an injury, he was substituted in the 29th minute, with Ghana already behind 2-0 within the first half hour.

Despite the early setback, Essel’s debut is seen as a key milestone in his development, with the technical team expected to monitor his progress ahead of future assignments.

Ghana will now face Trinidad & Tobago in the third-place playoff on Saturday, while Nigeria move on to face Jamaica in the Unity Cup final.

North Texas signs Ghanaian youngster Aaron Essel on loan

North Texas SC has announced the signing of Ghanaian football player Aaron Essel on loan.

Aaron Essel is added to the team to strengthen the midfield of North Texas SC from St. Johnstone FC for the remainder of the season.

The deal includes an option to make his transfer permanent, subject to completing his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC). St. Johnstone retains the option to recall him.

Essel, 19, is a Ghanaian who arrives with experience from Scotland’s top level, having played 18 games for St. Johnstone.

READ ALSO: St Johnstone coach Craig Levein hails versatility of new signing Aaron Essel

His all-around play and tireless work ethic made him a key figure in Scotland.

Prior to that, he honed his skills with Bechem United FC in the Ghana Premier League, playing in three seasons and 68 games.

“Aaron is bringing with him established professional and international experience,” North Texas head coach John Gall said.

“A midfield dynamo, he takes over the middle of the park with his quality and tenacity. He is a reflection of the standard we are establishing here at the club, and we are looking forward to having him on the pitch for us.”

Essel has played for Ghana internationally at the U20 and U23 levels. Most recently, he captained the U23 team in a match against Morocco.

As North Texas strives for success in the MLS NEXT Pro season, his work ethic and leadership will be crucial.

St Johnstone coach Craig Levein hails versatility of new signing Aaron Essel

The manager of St Johnstone, a team in the Scottish Premiership, Craig Levein, is thrilled that versatile Ghanaian footballer Aaron Essel has been signed.

The teenage phenom impressed the Saints during his trial and signed a three-year contract. In a preseason friendly versus Aarboth, Essel performed admirably.

The 18-year-old, in manager Leveine’s opinion, will be a good match for the team.

Aaron is a young lad who has potential and he has a lot of the required skillsets to be a good player. He trained with us for about 10 days towards the end of last season and did really well,” he said.
“As we saw on Saturday against Arbroath, he can play in centre midfield. But he can also play full-back and at centre-back. We will see what time brings but he has impressed with his all-round ability.”

“I am so happy to sign here. It is a great step for me in my career and to develop,” said Essel after completing his move.

“I am very proud and getting the chance to be here is a blessing. I want to show my qualities on the field – my tackles, my passing. I just want to develop to become a key player of the club.

“The staff, players and manager have been amazing. The people here have been so amazing with welcoming me. I love it and I am looking to do my best.”