Etienne Eto’o, son of Cameroonian football legend Samuel Eto’o, has shared insights into his evolving relationship with his father, revealing that the bond between them has significantly improved.
The young striker, currently playing for Rayo Vallecano, spoke candidly in an interview with Radioestadio Noche, dispelling previous claims that they were distant.
A strengthened father-son relationship
The 22-year-old forward, who has been making a name for himself in Spain, emphasized the positive impact of his relationship with Samuel Eto’o, now president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT).
“The relationship with him is now very good. This mental stability has benefited me a lot because it coincided with my best moment,” he said.
His words mark a shift from earlier remarks where he had suggested that his relationship with the former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker was not particularly close.
Now, however, Etienne acknowledges the influence of his father’s legacy on his own career.
Proud to carry the Eto’o name
Having recently made his debut for Rayo Vallecano’s first team in La Liga, featuring in a 1-0 loss against Villarreal on February 22, Etienne has earned recognition for his impressive form with the reserve team, where he has netted 21 goals in 23 matches.
He admits that carrying the Eto’o name comes with high expectations but sees it as a source of motivation rather than pressure.
“For me, carrying my father’s last name is a pride, and I know he is super proud and excited about this new step in my career. Seeing everything my father has been able to achieve, coming from nowhere, he is a reference for me. His example helps me move forward because I always wanted to be a footballer.”
Dreaming of a Bernabéu appearance
Despite being an unused substitute in Rayo Vallecano’s recent 1-1 draw against Sevilla, Etienne remains hopeful of getting playing time in their upcoming match against Real Madrid—one of his father’s former clubs.
This weekend, Etienne Eto’o could get minutes at the Bernabéu against Real Madrid, the club where his father, Samuel Eto’o, played.
Etienne’s season with Rayo’s reserve team has been spectacular, as he has scored 21 goals in the 23 matches he has played in the reserve side. He… pic.twitter.com/A8vVJgKCWb
— Goals ⚽ (@Goals360hub) March 6, 2025
“Everyone dreams of playing in stadiums like the Bernabéu. This whole year has been a dream. I am very grateful to Íñigo for giving me this opportunity,” he told Marca.
A goal against Real Madrid, a club his father famously tormented during his playing days, would be a special milestone in Etienne’s young career.
As he continues to carve out his own path in football, his relationship with Samuel Eto’o appears to be stronger than ever—a bond that could serve as an inspiration both on and off the pitch.
