Former Chelsea Star Salomon Kalou Launches Chocolate Brand Oume
Former Chelsea striker Salomon Kalou has ventured into a unique post-football career. The Ivorian, who grew up in the town of Oume, has launched his own chocolate brand, Oume, after retiring in 2024. Known for his prolific scoring during his time at Chelsea, Kalou's new endeavour is a departure from the typical paths taken by retired footballers.
Kalou's journey with chocolate began surprisingly late in life. He revealed that he didn't know what chocolate was during his childhood in the Ivory Coast and found it expensive when he first encountered it. This curiosity led him to compare the production of chocolate in his home country with the successful footballers it has produced.
Kalou's footballing career was nothing short of spectacular. He scored 60 goals for Chelsea, winning numerous trophies including the Premier League, four FA Cups, the League Cup, and the Champions League. His impressive club career was complemented by international success, winning the Africa Cup of Nations with the Ivory Coast in 2015. All these achievements were accomplished during his time at Chelsea, making it a truly remarkable spell.
In 2025, Kalou returned to Stamford Bridge for a legends match, joining former Blues heroes like John Terry and Eden Hazard. However, unlike many of his former teammates, Kalou has chosen to explore a different path after hanging up his boots. His chocolate brand, Oume, is a venture into a realm few footballers enter in their post-playing days. Kalou founded the company to create high-quality chocolate while supporting sustainable and ethical practices in the cocoa industry.
While the legends match at Chelsea saw Diego Costa receive a yellow card for a misdemeanor, Kalou's return was marked by a sweet new venture. His chocolate brand, Oume, is not just a business venture but also a commitment to ethical practices in the cocoa industry. Kalou's foray into the chocolate world is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his desire to make a difference, even after his illustrious football career.
