A powerful centre-forward with long range shots and amazing dribbling ability, Esel (1927- 2004) moved to Beşiktaş JK from Ankaragücü in 1948. He netted 20 goals in his first season and helped the Eagles to the Istanbul Championship title. He formed a prolific partnership with Şükrü Gülesin. In 1951, he went to Italy to play for SPAL, where he scored 27 goals in 77 league matches. Three years later, he rejoined Beşiktaş JK and remained with the Eagles until 1957. After his retirement, he took up coaching and managed Altınordu and Uşakspor for many years.