Chelsea fans around the world have been left heartbroken by the news that club legend Paul Canoville has been rushed to hospital following a serious deterioration in his health.
Canoville, 63, made history in 1981 when he became the first black footballer to play for Chelsea, signing from Hillingdon Borough.

Despite facing abuse early in his Blues career, he persevered and eventually won over the fans — going on to help Chelsea clinch the Second Division title in 1984.
In total, he made 103 appearances and scored 15 goals for the club before moving on to Reading in 1986. Off the pitch, Canoville has inspired many with his resilience, overcoming cancer, addiction to crack cocaine, and becoming a tireless campaigner for anti-racism and youth empowerment through his Paul Canoville Foundation.

However, in a deeply worrying update, the Foundation confirmed on Wednesday that Canoville has suffered a major health setback.

A powerful statement from the Paul Canoville Foundation read:
“It is with a heavy heart that I share an update on the health of our Founder, Paul Canoville.

“Paul is currently in hospital due to a serious decline in his physical health, which has also taken a significant toll on his mental well-being.

“As someone who has overcome extraordinary challenges throughout his life, Paul remains determined — but he now needs time, care, and space to recover.”

The statement added that Canoville has had to cancel several key engagements, including school visits, a Downing Street reception for Show Racism the Red Card, and most emotionally, the premiere of a documentary about his life scheduled for Thursday at Regent Street Cinema.

“His recent absence from school visits and, most heartbreakingly, the Show Racism the Red Card reception at Downing Street earlier this week, has been deeply upsetting for him.
We also want to prepare friends and supporters that Paul is very unlikely to attend the premiere of the new documentary about his life tomorrow evening (Thursday) at Regent Street Cinema — something he had been immensely looking forward to.”

The Foundation also urged the public to respect Canoville’s need for privacy as he begins a period of recovery:
“Out of respect for his need to rest and heal, we kindly ask that people refrain from contacting Paul directly at this time.

“Any messages of support can be shared as comments on our social posts and we will ensure Paul sees these once well enough.”

The statement concluded with a heartfelt appeal, highlighting that Canoville’s regular public appearances form a significant part of his income, and encouraging donations to continue the work of the Foundation while he recuperates.
“Paul’s regular public appearances are an important part of his income. While he takes this time away, we’re asking for donations to help ease that burden and continue the Foundation’s impactful work.

“Thank you for your compassion, your understanding, and your continued support.”
Chelsea fans and the wider footballing community will no doubt rally around Canoville, just as he has always stood strong for others. His bravery, honesty, and advocacy have left an indelible mark on the club and beyond.
The entire Chelsea family sends its love and strength to Paul Canoville — a true Blue legend.