Samuel Eto’o created a stir on social media in a video that pictured the Cameroon Football Federation President reuniting with his longtime playmate who is now a security guard in Douala.
Eto’o discovered his kinsman and former teammate during an Ecobank event in Douala recently.
The event had finished and Eto’o, accompanied by fans and guests, was leaving the venue when a familiar voice called him from the crowd.
Turning around, he saw “Bobo”, his former teammate dressed in a yellow security guard uniform.
In a heartwarming gesture, Eto’o embraced him excitedly and gave him a gentle pat on the back.
Excited to see “Bobo,” as Eto’o fondly addressed his childhood mate, the football legend exchanged pleasantries with him in his native Bassa Language.
He then turned facing the Managing Director of Ecobank Cameroon, Gwendoline Abunaw, and said, “He was my colleague. I played with him.”
Eto’o’s Fame
The former Barcelona and Real Madrid star has come a long way.
From becoming a four-time African player of the year and playing with the world’s most renowned clubs, Eto’o rose to the peak of football management in Cameroon.
He has been heading the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) since 2021 and has spearheaded reforms aimed at improving conditions of players and clubs.
Though facing many controversies, including match fixing allegations and clashes with the Ministry of Sports, Eto’o’s popularity at home has grown.
He recently received titles from traditional rulers in the country’s North West, West and North Regions.
He continues to pull crowds at each outing, one that very few Cameroonians can pull.
Considering Eto’o’s fame, his gesture towards his former team mate has received praise from fans and social media users.
They interpreted it as proof of Samuel Eto’o’s humility, and a lesson that people whom life has favoured should not look down on their friends who are still struggling financially.
