Chelsea have taken another significant step in nurturing emerging talent after handing teenage attacker Mathis Eboue his first professional contract, continuing the family football legacy established by his father, former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue.
The 17-year-old forward, who joined the Blues from Watford in January 2025, has quickly impressed coaches with his technical ability, maturity and attacking instincts.
His rapid rise through the youth ranks has underlined Chelsea’s belief in his long-term potential, with the club rewarding his development shortly after he reached eligibility to sign professional terms.
Eboue’s journey to Stamford Bridge has been marked by consistent progression. During his time at Watford, he demonstrated remarkable advancement by making his Under-21 debut while still eligible for the Under-16 category. That early exposure to higher-level competition laid the foundation for his smooth transition into Chelsea’s academy structure.
Since arriving at Cobham, Eboue has made an immediate impact. He began his first full campaign with the Under-18 squad and announced himself in style by scoring during a 4-2 away triumph against Crystal Palace.
His influence has continued to grow throughout the season, with the attacking midfielder becoming a regular figure in the side. Across 16 appearances in all competitions, he has contributed three goals while showcasing creativity and composure in the final third.
The youngster has also gained valuable European experience after making his UEFA Youth League debut during Chelsea’s emphatic 5-2 victory over Benfica at Cobham. That performance further reinforced his reputation as one of the academy’s most promising prospects.
Eboue’s progress has extended beyond club football. He earned his England Under-17 debut in September 2025 and has since established himself as an important member of the national youth setup.
His standout moment arrived in November when he delivered a clinical hat-trick in England’s 5-2 win over the United States, underlining his attacking quality and composure in front of goal.
His emergence inevitably draws comparisons to his father, Emmanuel Eboue, who enjoyed a distinguished career, particularly during his seven-year spell at Arsenal between 2004 and 2011.
While Mathis operates in a more advanced role, the determination and athleticism associated with his father’s playing days appear evident in his own style.
