According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday October 30, 2026, Former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o has revealed how he was left without assistance when he arrived in Spain to join Real Madrid at 16.

He recalled that no club representative came to meet him at Barajas Airport, leaving him frightened and unsure how to reach the club.

Eto’o later became one of Europe’s most successful forwards, enjoying spells with Barcelona and Inter Milan. However, his journey began with an experience in Madrid that taught him lessons about independence and perseverance.

Real Madrid’s scouts had identified him as a promising talent. When he travelled to Spain, he expected someone from the club to welcome him. Instead, nobody arrived.

“When I travelled to Spain at the age of 16, no Real Madrid official or representative came to meet me at Barajas Airport,” he said, according to SPORT.

The situation left him worried because he was in an unfamiliar country. Fortunately, he met an African street cleaner who offered to guide him to the club after finishing his shift.

“I was a bit scared until I spoke to an African street cleaner who worked there. He told me that if I waited for him to finish his shift, he’d take me to the club. I’m still in touch with him to this day,” Eto’o recalled.

His spell at Real Madrid did not bring a breakthrough. After his first season, the club sent him on loan to Leganes to gain experience.

Despite the difficult beginning, the Cameroon international insisted that he holds no resentment towards the Spanish giants. “I harbour no ill will towards Real Madrid,” he added.

Eto’o believes the experience helped shape his character and development as a footballer. He considers it an important part of his journey.