Samuel Essende

Samuel Emmanuel Essende Mbongu (born 30 January 1998) is a professional footballer who plays as a forward for German club Augsburg. Born in France, he represents the DR Congo national team.

Club career
Essende joined the Paris Saint-Germain Academy at the age of 12, and spent his entire youth footballing career with them. On 10 August 2018, he signed his first professional contract with PSG, keeping him with the club until 1 June 2021.

On 22 August 2018, Essende signed on loan with Eupen in Belgium. He made his professional debut with Eupen in a 1–0 Belgian First Division A win over Mouscron on 25 August 2018.

In August 2019, Essende signed for Championnat National side Avranches.

In 2021, Essende joined Ligue 2 side Pau.

On 20 June 2022, Essende signed a contract with Caen until 2025.

On 20 July 2023, Caen sent Essende on a season-long loan to Primeira Liga side Vizela. After he scored 10 goals in 22 appearances in all competitions during the first half of the season, Vizela triggered a buy-clause and permanently signed Essende on contract until June 2026.

On 28 June 2024, Essende signed a four-year deal with Augsburg in Germany.

International career
Essende made his debut for the DR Congo national team on 6 June 2024 in a World Cup qualifier against Senegal at the Diamniadio Olympic Stadium. He played the full match as the game ended in a 1–1 draw.

Personal life
Born in France, Essende holds both French and Congolese nationalities.