Former Arsenal midfielder, Emmanuel Eboué
Former Ivorian international, Emmanuel Eboué has expressed sadness over his inability to connect with his children and not being invited for his son's graduation ceremony at the Chelsea academy.
Mathis Eboué, 17, officially graduated from the Chelsea academy and signed his first professional contract on February 4, 2026, marking a significant milestone in his football development.
However, his father revealed he was not present to witness the moment and has struggled to maintain communication with him for more than 6 years.
“Up till now, I don’t have any recent picture of my kids,” Eboué said in an emotional statement.
“When I ask for new pictures from their mother, she refuses to give them to me. They read my message, but they don’t answer. I feel very sad because when he signed for Chelsea, I wasn’t there. I am very happy for him. I want to be closer to my son to help him.”
Despite being axed from his son's life, Eboué stated that he is very proud of his son’s achievement and reiterated his desire to rebuild their relationship.
“I am very happy for him. I just want to be closer to my son," Emmanuel Eboué said on The 5th House Podcast.
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