Caleb Yirenkyi’s mother addresses criticism of son after Arsenal clash

Janet Osei Bonsu, mother of Ghanaian midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, has said she is not perturbed by criticisms aimed at her son following Coventry City’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the opening game of the 2026/27 Premier League season on August 22, 2026.

During the match, Yirenkyi’s parents were spotted at a public viewing center watching the game alongside Ghanaian fans.

The midfielder started the game, making several runs and contributing both defensively and offensively in an effort to thwart the Gunners’ threat.

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Although he had a decent performance, Yirenkyi was booked for a challenge on an Arsenal player, which slowed his momentum and made him less visible. He was eventually substituted early in the second half, sparking criticism.

Reacting to this, Janet said she is unfazed by the backlash, believing it is part of the game and stressing that she is not a die-hard football fan.

“I don’t follow football deeply with my heart. Since he has decided to be a footballer as a job, it comes with good and bad days. So if I hear you criticize him, I won’t even turn to look at you to be bothered. We heard everything people said. You either win or lose, so if they are defeated I am not hurt and not affected by insults,” she told 3Sports.

Janet added that she prays her son will succeed at Coventry City and eventually secure a move to a top European club.

“He did not tell me about the team he wanted, and I’m not an avid football fanatic; but I pray he plays for a bigger club in the future,” she said.

View the posts below:

"I don't make insults and criticsm aimed at my son bother me." - Janet Osei Bonsu, Mother of Caleb Yirenkyi #3Sports #TV3GH pic.twitter.com/Y4bU79A5sh

— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) August 22, 2026

📸 Mr and Mrs Yirenkyi took front row in Bechem as Caleb Yirenkyi made his debut in the Premier League for the first time.#3Sports #TV3GH pic.twitter.com/4CIGht0rfd

— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) August 22, 2026