Esmaeili scored a goal and assisted one during Esteghlal's 3–2 win in Tehran derby against Persepolis on 12 February 2017[7] and was named as best player of the match.

Esmaeili made significant strides in his ability as a playmaker, also forming a formidable partnership with his teammates, the Uzbek Server Djeparov and the Senegalese Mame Thiam.

[11][12] In October 2021, he joined Qatari side Al-Arabi as a free agent, replacing of his injured compatriot Mehrdad Mohammadi.

Esmaeili invited to Iran U-23 training camp by Nelo Vingada[14] to preparation for Incheon 2014 and 2016 AFC U-22 Championship (Summer Olympic qualification).

He played as an defensive midfielder on occasion for his ability to retrieve the ball, so Esmaeili is considered a utility player.