Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue has expressed unwavering support for his son's burgeoning football career at Chelsea, setting aside a fierce club rivalry that defined his own playing days.
A Father's Pride Trumps Club Allegiance
Despite making 214 appearances for Arsenal over seven years and playing in the 2006 Champions League final, Eboue's loyalty to the Gunners is not a factor in his aspirations for 16-year-old Mathis. The teenager, an attacking midfielder, joined Chelsea last year and is now part of their Under-18 squad after previously being at Arsenal's famed Hale End academy.
In an interview, Eboue stated his clear pride in his son's progress. "I'm very, very proud of Mathis, and very happy for him," he said. "When he was very young, I didn't really think my boy would go on and be such a good player, to be honest."
Why Stamford Bridge is the Right Place
Eboue has advised his son to remain at Chelsea, citing the club's recent trend of promoting youth. With Mathis nearing 17, his father believes a first-team opportunity could be imminent. "For me, at 16, nearly 17, I think I would want to stay at the club," Eboue explained. "You can see how much they like to use their younger players – so for him, I think it's better to stay at Chelsea."
This endorsement comes despite Chelsea's £1 billion spending spree under owner Todd Boehly since 2022. Eboue sees a clear pathway for his son amidst the high-profile signings.
International Future and Family Legacy
Unlike his father, who represented the Ivory Coast, Mathis has a wider range of international options. He has already debuted for England's Under-17s and can also choose to play for Ivory Coast or Belgium through his mother.
Eboue is relaxed about the decision, leaving it entirely to his son. "I said it was completely up to him what he wanted to do," he added, highlighting the positive position of having multiple choices. The family dynamic was even noted when the president of the Ivorian Football Federation praised Mathis after an England U15s match against Ivory Coast.
As for whether Mathis could surpass his father's career, Eboue joked, "He's doing very well. But to be better than me? I don't know!" The pair are set to watch Chelsea face Arsenal in their Carabao Cup semi-final clash, a fixture that now carries a unique family significance.
