Esse Akida’s Journey: Patience, Purpose, and Advocacy in the Quest for Her Next Club

Harambee Starlets forward Esse Akida has yet to sign with a new club since parting ways with Greek champions PAOK in July, and she’s in no rush to settle on just any offer. Approaching what many might consider the twilight of her career at 31, Akida is weighing her options carefully, prioritizing financial security and the right fit for this phase of her life. The Kenyan striker is holding out for a lucrative deal that aligns with her expectations, reflecting a keen awareness of her value in a professional landscape where female players often face limited options and financial challenges.

Akida’s three-year tenure with PAOK showcased her talents on a highly competitive platform and saw her become one of the most prolific goal scorers in the league. In her debut season, she clinched the Golden Boot after notching 17 goals in 18 games, a feat that underscored her scoring prowess. Her achievements extended beyond personal accolades; her consistency and drive made her an invaluable asset to PAOK, where she played a critical role in the team’s domestic and international campaigns. Her impressive track record earned her a contract extension in her second season, securing her stay despite interest from clubs in Germany, Scotland, and Finland. In her third year, she capped off her journey in Greece with a memorable league and cup double, along with the opportunity to represent the club in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Now, as a free agent, Akida is in a unique position to choose her next step without the limitations of the transfer window, which restricts other players. While some players might scramble to sign quickly to avoid missing the season, she remains patient, underscoring her focus on the long-term benefits of a solid deal rather than jumping into an arrangement that doesn’t fully meet her aspirations. Akida has highlighted that she’s waiting for a “mouth-watering” offer, one that recognizes her contributions and reflects her current standing in the game. This level of selectiveness speaks to her maturity and understanding of her own worth, something that female players, particularly in less-publicized leagues, don’t always get the chance to assert.

In the meantime, Akida continues to maintain her fitness and readiness, treating this period as an extended pre-season. Her disciplined approach to training has kept her at peak physical condition, and she is taking all the steps necessary to ensure she’s ready to make an immediate impact once the right offer comes her way. She’s also expressed a willingness to wait until the January transfer window, if necessary, to secure a deal that aligns with her objectives. Her willingness to delay her return to competitive play highlights her confidence in the path she’s charting, demonstrating a clear sense of direction and an understanding of the importance of making the most strategic choice.

Although Akida’s preference leans toward a return to European football, she’s open to other possibilities, as long as they meet her standards. She has mentioned receiving a few offers, but they fell short of what she’s looking for in terms of both compensation and fit. This discerning approach reflects her experience in the professional game, where she has learned the importance of aligning with clubs that share her values and vision. This is particularly important for a player at her stage, where the right choice can make a significant difference in both her career trajectory and financial security.

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Beyond her professional ambitions, Akida has found ways to make her free time meaningful, using this period of transition to launch her autobiography, Chained, in September. Through her book, she candidly shares her life story and career journey, bringing to light the numerous challenges she’s faced as a female footballer in a largely male-dominated sport. Her story provides a window into the often-overlooked experiences of women in football, from the systemic barriers to the stigmas and social constraints that can limit their opportunities and impact.

In Chained, Akida describes feeling “chained” for a significant portion of her career, constrained by societal expectations and the limitations placed on female athletes in particular. Her narrative reveals how these challenges have shaped her identity and driven her to speak out for others who face similar obstacles. By openly discussing her struggles, Akida aims to empower young girls and aspiring footballers who might be facing similar experiences but lack the platform to voice them. The book not only recounts her personal journey but also serves as an advocacy tool, shedding light on the broader issues within women’s football and encouraging change.

The autobiography also highlights some of the more personal aspects of her life, offering readers a glimpse into the sacrifices and resilience required to pursue a career in professional sports. Akida’s decision to share her story reflects her commitment to breaking down the stereotypes and stigmas that still surround women’s football, particularly in countries where resources and support for female athletes are scarce. Her hope is that by sharing her story, she can inspire others to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity and contribute to a more inclusive, equitable environment in the sport.

Before joining PAOK, Akida’s career took her across various leagues, each adding a unique chapter to her story. She played for Turkish side Besiktas, where she quickly adapted to the competitive nature of European football. This stint provided her with invaluable experience, helping her develop the versatility and resilience that would define her playstyle. Prior to that, Akida had a season in Israel, where she represented Ramat HaSharon. Her time in Israel, though brief, was a stepping stone that introduced her to the rigors of international play and the nuances of adapting to new environments. Each experience added to her skill set and prepared her for the success she would later achieve in Greece.

These international experiences have not only shaped Akida’s skills on the pitch but have also broadened her perspective on the global game and the role of female players within it. Her travels have exposed her to different playing styles, training regimes, and levels of support for women’s football, all of which have contributed to her growth as both a player and an advocate for female athletes. These experiences underscore her adaptability and commitment, qualities that have helped her stand out in every team she has joined.

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As she contemplates her next move, Akida’s patience and determination reflect a player who fully understands her value. She is not only seeking a club where she can continue to contribute on the field but also one that recognizes the significance of her experience and aligns with her financial and personal goals. Her journey serves as an important reminder of the challenges that women in football often face in securing fair compensation and recognition, even after demonstrating their abilities at high levels of competition. Her career trajectory underscores the need for greater investment in women’s sports, especially as more players, like Akida, continue to prove their mettle on the international stage.

Akida’s story is one of resilience, talent, and a relentless pursuit of her goals despite numerous hurdles. Her success at PAOK, her advocacy work through Chained, and her disciplined approach to her current career phase all contribute to an inspiring legacy that extends beyond her on-field accomplishments. By carefully considering her options, Akida exemplifies the power of self-belief and the importance of aligning one’s career choices with personal values and ambitions. She remains a role model for aspiring footballers, demonstrating that it’s possible to navigate the professional sports landscape with integrity and purpose.

Ultimately, Akida’s next move will reflect a combination of her experience, ambitions, and her hard-earned understanding of the sport’s financial realities. For her, this transitional period represents not just a search for a new club, but an opportunity to advocate for the kind of respect and support that all female athletes deserve. Her journey continues to inspire and challenge perceptions, reminding the world that women in football are deserving of recognition, respect, and opportunities equal to those of their male counterparts. Akida’s legacy is already being felt in the many young players who look up to her, and with each step she takes, she paves the way for a future where women’s football is given the prominence it deserves.