PAOK have confirmed the signing of 28 year old Esse Akida on a one and a half year contract. On signing the deal, Akida said: "I am incredibly excited to become a member of PAOK's women's team. I had heard about the team when I was playing in Turkey. My dream is to play in the Champions League and I believe I will make it happen here." Being quite excited Akida also said, "I like the football culture that PAOK stands for, it is something we watch and read about often. I know that my adaptation will not be difficult because we all speak the language of football. My only goals are to help the team achieve its goals.”
PAOK Thessaloniki are actually top of the table in the two group Greek Women's Premier League with 30 points garnered from winning all their 10 matches. The Harambee starlets maestro was previously with Turkish side, Besiktas but her contract got terminated in 2020 when sports activities were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. Besiktas finished second with 42 points in the 12-team league at the 2019-20 season. The Kilifi born forward only managed a total of two appearances for the Turkish club.
Back in 2016 in the COTIF Women's tournament, Akida won the prestigious golden boot award after scoring 5 goals and one hatrick against the then reigning Portuguese champions, Benfica. Apparently, Harambee starlets were using the tournament to prepare for CECAFA Women's Championship and it all proved worthwhile for the high paced forward.