Kelvin Yeboah Carves His Own Legacy in Football World
The name Yeboah resonates powerfully in football circles, especially at Elland Road, where memories of thunderous volleys and iconic goals still echo. Yet, a new generation is making its mark: Kelvin Yeboah, the 25-year-old nephew of Leeds United legend Tony Yeboah, is rapidly becoming a force in his own right. After a prolific two-year stint with Minnesota United in Major League Soccer, Kelvin is poised for another season, fueled by aspirations of reaching the Premier League and gracing the World Cup stage.
From Humble Beginnings to MLS Success
Born in Accra, Ghana, Kelvin moved to Italy with his family at age three, settling in Novara near Milan. His early football journey included spells at clubs like Gozzano and Monza before a pivotal move to London at 15. There, he balanced studies with playing for AC London in the Combined Counties League, often waking at dawn for training sessions and bus rides to refine his skills under coach Errol.
Despite trials at clubs like Doncaster and interest from West Ham, Kelvin's breakthrough came in Austria with WSG Tirol at 18, where a decisive goal secured his place. Under manager Thomas Silberberger, he transitioned from winger to striker, honing his craft with guidance from former Slovenia international Zlatko Dedic. A standout moment arrived in September 2019, when he scored four goals in a cup tie against Austria Vienna, a game attended by his uncle Tony, whose legendary status inspired Kelvin's childhood.
Family Ties and Football Wisdom
Tony Yeboah, now 59 and managing properties in Ghana, remains a steadfast mentor. Kelvin recalls childhood days watching old video cassettes of Tony's goals for Leeds and Eintracht Frankfurt, trying to recreate them outdoors. Before that fateful Austria Vienna match, Kelvin followed his father's advice to "touch his feet" for luck, rubbing his hands on Tony's legs to absorb some striker's instinct. The result? Four goals and a career lift-off.
"Our relationship is one where if I need advice, I just call him," Kelvin explains. "He simplifies the game, telling me to have fun and stay relaxed. I'm starting to understand that as I grow—you play best when joyful and in love with football." This wisdom has guided Kelvin through challenges, including a turbulent spell at Genoa in Serie A, where financial crises led to loans across three countries before finding stability at Minnesota United under Eric Ramsay.
Style, Ambitions, and International Dreams
Kelvin's playing style diverges from his uncle's traditional target-man approach, leaning more toward a modern, dribble-oriented striker akin to Italian poacher Filippo Inzaghi. "I'm more of a modern nine," he says, noting goals that mirror Inzaghi's precision. With nine goals in his first MLS season and 13 in his second, his performances have drawn attention, reinforcing his belief that Premier League football is within reach if he continues scoring.
Internationally, Kelvin holds dual eligibility for Italy and Ghana. He earned four caps for Italy's U21s and briefly featured for Ghana's U18s before an injury setback. While grateful to Italy for opportunities, he expresses a deep connection to Ghana, citing cultural roots like eating fufu and speaking Ghanaian languages. "The opportunity to play for Ghana would be amazing, a dream," he admits, eyeing a potential World Cup clash against England in June.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As Kelvin prepares for the upcoming MLS season, his journey reflects resilience and ambition. From Ghanaian origins to European trials and American success, he embodies a global football narrative. With Tony Yeboah's legacy as a backdrop, Kelvin is determined to write his own chapter, aiming for top-tier leagues and international glory. Keep an eye on this rising star—his goals may soon echo beyond Minnesota, reaching the grandest stages of world football.
