Ex-Arsenal star Eboué opens up on struggles, separation from children

Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboué has spoken emotionally about his struggles, revealing the pain of being separated from his children.

Eboué said his post-football life has been marked by personal hardship, including limited contact with his kids.

According to ESPN Africa on Friday, he said, “Up till now, I don’t have any recent pictures. The pictures that I have are the old ones, when they were kids. Even when I ask their mum for new pictures, she refuses to give them to me.

“I have their numbers every time I’m messaging them. I don’t know if it’s them reading, but I can see that they read my messages, but they don’t answer.”

The former Ivory Coast international explained that the separation has had a deep emotional impact on him, adding that his greatest wish is to rebuild his relationship with his children.

Eboué also reflected on the wider challenges he has faced since leaving the game, suggesting that life after football has been far more difficult than many people realise.

Despite his struggles, he expressed hope that his situation could improve in the future, particularly if he is able to restore family ties.

Eboué, who was once a key figure in Arsenal’s squad during his time in the Premier League, has previously spoken about the difficulties faced by some former players after retirement, including financial and personal challenges.

His latest comments add to growing conversations around player welfare and life after football, especially for professionals who struggle to transition out of the sport.