Sheyi Emmanuel Adebayor (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Emmanuel Adebayor reveals why he cut ties with his family, claiming they constantly demanded money and took advantage of his success throughout his career.
Emmanuel Adebayor has revealed the painful reason behind cutting ties with his family, despite earning millions during his career.
The former Arsenal, Manchester City, and Real Madrid striker said he made the decision more than a decade ago after feeling used by those closest to him.
"Nobody was there for me until I had nothing to eat. I was hungry and without support, my family didn't help me and they only remembered me when I got rich," said Adebayor.
He described a relationship that became increasingly difficult over time.
"My mother insulted me, even cursed me. She turned other people against me."
The Togolese striker claims he supported his family financially for years, but nothing was ever enough.
"I bought them houses and cars, paid for their medical treatment, but it was never enough. They always came back for more."
According to him, some relatives relied entirely on his income.
"My brothers expected me to support them for the rest of their lives. They refused to work because they had me. I gave them money to start their businesses, and when they failed, they would ask for it again. That brought me to the edge."
He also spoke about the pressure and criticism he faced when he refused further help.
"If I refused to give them money, I would become a 'bad man'. Some family members publicly attacked and vilified me, but I can't carry the whole family on my back forever."
Adebayor admitted he made mistakes with money earlier in his career.
"I bought four new cars in one day. Another crazy thing? I spent 300,000 euros on women in nightclubs in one week."
Since then, he has changed his approach completely.
After distancing himself from those he describes as a burden, he now avoids giving money, even to charity.
"I will be very clear to those who say that I don't donate money. I simply don't give money. I do what I want, I eat what I want, and there will always be those who will say that I didn't donate anything."
The former striker built a long career across clubs such as Metz, Monaco, Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Tottenham, Crystal Palace, Başakşehir, Kayserispor, Olimpia, and Semassi.
Between 2006 and 2009, he was named Arsenal Player of the Year four times in a row.
Today, Adebayor lives a life of comfort and has made it clear he has no intention of sharing his wealth the way he once did.