In his so far short but eye-catching road career, the 23-year-old Ethiopian has shown an impressive consistency over the half marathon and full marathon distance.

Esa first emerged on the international scene in 2021, claiming victory in the Poznan Half Marathon in 59:32 before later that year finishing second in Lisbon over the same distance in a time of 59:39.

Returning to Lisbon the following year, he blitzed to victory in 1:01:00 before enjoying an impressive marathon debut in Amsterdam, placing fifth in 2:05:05, in the 2022 edition.

His good form continued last year. He opened his account with an excellent second in the Tokyo Marathon in 2:05:22 – just missing out on top spot in a close tussle with his countryman Deso Gelmisa. He then climaxed his year by placing eighth in the Valencia Marathon, clocking 2:05:40.