Done Deal: Nigerian Midfielder Ededem Essien Joins Erbil SC
Iraqi Premier League side Erbil Sport Club have completed the signing of Nigerian midfielder Ededem Essien from Kazakhstan club IFC Tobol.
Essien, who is popularly known as Pappy, joins Erbil SC after a successful spell in Kazakhstan, where he played a key role in Tobol’s midfield.
The Akwa Ibom State-born midfielder recently won the 2025 Kazakhstan Cup with Tobol. He featured in the final against Ordabasy, playing the full 90 minutes as Tobol secured a 2–0 victory to lift the trophy.
Essien joined Tobol in January 2024 and quickly established himself as an important member of the team. Operating as a defensive midfielder, he was known for his discipline, energy and tactical awareness in the middle of the park.
Before his move to Kazakhstan, the 24-year-old had stints with several clubs across Europe and North Africa, including Van (Armenia), Al-Nasr Benghazi and Al Akhdar (Libya), and Pari Nizhny Novgorod in Russia.
Erbil SC are expected to benefit from Essien’s experience and winning mentality as they strengthen their squad ahead of the new Iraqi Premier League season.
