Features
Achraf Hakimi Is Armouring Up
The Paris Saint-Germain star talks inspiring the youth, style and the latest hits in his playlist on the set of his Under Armour announcement
The crown jewel of his nation, a proud ambassador of his continent, and the lynchpin of his club, Achraf Hakimi is well on his way to consolidating his legacy as an undisputed great, both on and off the field. His revolutionary commitment to constantly pushing the boundaries between the game and the fashion industry has made him a cultural icon. Aspiring for excellence in all his endeavors, his latest move—a switch to the Under Armour family—is another example of his determination to change a game he plans to finish at the top of.
The announcement of Hakimi’s decision to join the American sportswear giant comes as no surprise to those paying attention. The Baltimore-born brand has been making a charge in the football scene of late, with Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger, Bayern Munich’s Sacha Boey, and Tottenham’s Pedro Porro among the names who have pledged allegiance to UA in recent seasons.
The latest acquisition of Hakimi—who boasts a global appeal with over 23 million followers across social media—alongside an already star-studded and ever-growing roster is a clear indication that the brand isn’t here to just participate but to shake up the football industry as we know it.
On set for the production behind Hakimi’s announcement, eager anticipation surrounds every room for the arrival of one of the biggest names in world football. From crews to cameras, nothing has been taken lightly. Everyone in attendance is aware of the size of the Hakimi name and is driven by a clear aim to produce something worthy of it.
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Just short of 3:00pm, Hakimi arrives. Making his way around the set, he greets each team member individually, instantly defying the stereotype often associated with elite-level footballers. The Moroccan’s humble nature can be traced back to his upbringing, and he’s been very outspoken about the influence his mother has had on him. But while many footballers might be wary of their position as a role model, Hakimi takes it in his stride and embraces the opportunity his position grants him.
“I don’t see it as pressure. I see it as a responsibility and an honor. Knowing that I can inspire young players and fans motivates me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the pitch. At the end of the day, it’s about working hard, staying true to myself, and enjoying the game. If that can inspire others, then I’m grateful for it.”
Since his arrival in the City of Love in the summer of 2021, Hakimi has captured Parisian hearts, going from strength to strength and establishing himself as one of the best fullbacks in world football.
The 26-year-old former rookie has now become a key leader in the PSG dressing room, playing a crucial role in guiding a young squad. Unsurprisingly, he’s very reflective when asked about his leadership role in the team and pays homage to his time at Real Madrid and the influence it had in shaping his career.
“Coming through Real Madrid taught me the importance of discipline, learning from the best, and always pushing myself to improve. Now at PSG, I try to pass on that mentality to the younger players: to stay humble, work hard, and never stop learning. Leadership isn’t just about experience; it’s about helping your teammates grow and creating a winning mindset together.”
Born in Madrid to Moroccan parents, Hakimi has consistently shown throughout his career that he isn’t afraid to take risks and back himself, making his name with Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan before securing his legacy with PSG. Wherever Achraf goes, silverware follows, and his link-up with UA is another move where he backs himself to raise the levels. Flying the flag for UA in Paris and cementing their growing influence in the city, Hakimi inspires the next generation of ballers to ride the UA wave. He debuted the partnership by delivering a clinic in Le Classique, rocking the Shadow Elite 3 boots as he captained his team to a 3-1 victory over bitter rivals Marseille.
A proud Maghrabi, Hakimi made his senior debut for the Atlas Lions in 2016 at just 17, and despite leading his nation to two World Cups, three African Cup of Nations titles, and most recently, bronze at the 2024 Summer Olympics, he isn’t content with just participating.
“With Morocco, it’s a different feeling. The World Cup isn’t every year, and one ambition I have before retiring is to win something with Morocco—the World Cup or the African Cup of Nations—something special that makes my country proud.”
Throughout his childhood, Hakimi often returned to his motherland to stay connected to the culture, and his deep bond with his roots is evident. “Reaching the semi-final of the World Cup in 2022 with Morocco was unforgettable, not just for me but for the entire country. It was history, and feeling the pride of our people was something truly special.” With his UA boots now in his armory, it might just take him one step closer in his pursuit of eternal glory.
The semi-final in 2022 also saw Hakimi face off against his closest friend in football, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé. When asked who the best player he’s ever played against is, he quickly admits, “Of course, Kylian, but outside of him, Vini Jr. or Rafael Leão.” He also laughs as he admits that Mbappé would be the one to beat him in a race.
However, the Moroccan hasn’t just been setting levels on the pitch. Having graduated from two of the most iconic fashion capitals in the world—Milan and Paris—he’s consolidated his position as one of the leaders of the football x fashion wave. Regularly featured on the covers of Vogue, GQ, L’Officiel, and Art Basel, the right-back has become a certified style icon.
“Elegant, classic, and comfortable,” Hakimi says when asked to describe his style in just three words. What really stands out is his willingness to not only express himself but also experiment with his looks while staying true to his personality and culture. This results in classic looks that exude cool confidence, put together effortlessly.
A firm advocate of the intertwinement of the two industries, he explained, “Football isn’t just about what happens on the pitch; it’s also a lifestyle. Fashion is a form of self-expression, and as athletes, we have a chance to showcase who we are beyond the game through our style. I love experimenting with fashion and expressing my personality through the things I wear.”
His willingness to openly share his personality through his outfits is a testament to his bravery and authenticity—refusing to shy away from the possibility of criticism. But as his confidence on the pitch continues to grow, we can expect him to experiment even more freely. Given the fluidity with which he plays on the pitch—effortlessly switching between locking up the coldest ballers in the world and threatening opposition defenders—it’s no surprise that he can pull off different styles.
A frequent presence at Paris Fashion Week, Hakimi is no rookie, and he knows his stuff. His broad palette and versatility are reiterated as he lists his favorite brands: Rhude, Marni, and Jacquemus, to name a few. His appreciation for Benjamin Paulin’s influence in Paris is another example of his dedication to his craft, a characteristic which has served him well both on and off the pitch.
Looking back on his career and which city has the best style, he was torn between the two. “Milan or Paris. They’re the two cities of fashion, so I think both of them have something special.”
His link-up with Under Armour epitomises his dedication to the “look good, feel good, play good” vibe. The breadth of collections available to him, such as the Challenger, Terrace, and Unstoppable ranges, will allow him to continue to express himself and be comfortable, all while looking fly on and off the pitch.
Naturally, the conversation about fashion led to NBA culture talk, and when asked who his favorite player is right now, he smiles. “The players I love at the moment are Stephen Curry for sure, one of the greatest players in the NBA, and Kevin Durant.” Albeit a fan of individual players, he admits his favorite team is: “The Boston Celtics. They have really good players and a solid team right now. If not them, then the Lakers.”
When tasked with picking his own starting five, he includes himself, of course. “I would play guard or power forward!” Who would join him from the PSG team, though? “Ousmane Dembélé. Gianluigi Donnarumma, because I need a pivot! Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, because he likes basketball, so I think he’ll play well and have skill. Lastly, Presnel Kimpembe because he’s strong!”
Moreover, his love for fashion is matched by his love for music, and his style versatility is echoed in his appreciation for a wide range of music: “Amapiano, Afrobeats, rap, and hip-hop. I listen to everything!”
But when asked about his favorite song right now, his bond to his nation is evident, as he praises Spanish-Moroccan artist Morad’s song “Ojos Sin Ver.” And if it’s good enough for Hakimi, then it’s definitely worth adding to your playlist. The rapper is one of the biggest names in music right now, and in addition to his friendship with Hakimi, who is a regular attendee of his shows, he’s a firm favorite of Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé too.
It’s no surprise that when quizzed on who he’d like to perform at the World Cup halftime show, Morad is his pick. “I’m going to be there,” he says confidently with a smile. “It will motivate me in the second half!” Just another reminder that regardless of his passions outside of football, the baller is always focused on the beautiful game. This pursuit of greatness epitomizes the values of Under Armour and makes them the perfect pair to change the game in the sportswear industry and lead UA to the top.
From bursting onto the scene with Real Madrid to making his name in Dortmund, tasting silverware in Milan, and cementing his legacy as a champion in Paris—Achraf Hakimi is one of one. His effervescent playing style permeates all aspects of his life, from fashion to music. Despite his willingness to experiment, he prioritises comfort and exudes a classiness that money just can’t buy, no matter how many trips you make to Le Marais and Rue Saint-Honoré.
The Hakimi x UA link-up is one we’ll look back on in years to come as a relationship that shifted the very foundations of the sportswear industry—especially in France, where both the player and brand aim to grow. The duo are equally committed to greatness on the pitch and style off it.
As the full-back targets more trophies with PSG and his maiden accolade with the Moroccan national team, his reputation as a footballing great and a force for good off the pitch has been secured. A flagbearer for the positive shift in football culture through his determination to succeed in everything he does—a quality very few can emulate.
C’est officiel! Achraf Hakimi and Under Armour are here to change the game, and if his performance in Le Classique is anything to go off, we should all be excited for what is to come. A match made in being both different and the difference.
You can watch the full conversation here.
‘Surely with hardship comes ease’ – Surah Ash-Sharh (94:5-6)
They often say you are a product of your environment. But Oday Dabbagh is living proof that you can embrace the experience of different cultures while being a powerful representative of your nation. We sat down with the 26-year-old Palestinian striker to delve deeper into his journey so far, the importance of authentic representation, self-expression through different mediums, faith, and much more.
Oday Dabbagh rose to global acclaim during his recent loan spell at Aberdeen, making the move to Scotland in the January transfer window earlier this year. The move proved fruitful for the striker as he ended the season a champion, lifting the Scottish Cup. His form has since earned him a summer move to Egyptian powerhouse, Zamalek SC, swapping the Scottish Highlands for the Cairo sun.
(Jack Rowley)
Born and raised in the Old City in Jerusalem, Dabbagh reflects on his childhood with great fondness. “It was a beautiful childhood. Since I was young, I used to play football in the alleys of the old town, and my relationship with my family was wonderful. I will say, they cared more about studying than football, but we found a compromise in the end.” [laughs]
A keen footballer from the very beginning, Dabbagh was one of many Palestinian children playing football with their friends at any opportune moment. Given the nation’s passion for the game, I was curious to learn more about why football plays such a big role in Palestinian culture.
“I think globally, this sport is so important because it really brings people together – fans, teams, players, countries. For us, it gives our people an incredible sense of pride. But beyond that, sport is powerful because it’s a gateway to build bridges.”
For Oday Dabbagh, football was that bridge, allowing him to play the sport he loves professionally. Despite typical Arab familial expectations on pursuing education, which I’m sure many of us can relate to, Oday’s breakthrough into the professional game came while he was just a teenager.
(Hussein Mardini – 3XV Sports)
“It was a wonderful feeling. I was very motivated to show my abilities, and that experience was the start of everything for me. That launched me into the Palestine U-18 Youth National Team Championship. To be honest, I didn’t expect to reach that stage at the time. I think I’ve always focused on working hard in the moment rather than anticipating what could be or what could come next. That mindset probably reduced the pressure on me.”
Making his professional debut in the Palestinian domestic league for Hilal Al-Quds at 16, he then guided the club to three consecutive West Bank Premier League titles. And became the league’s top goalscorer in 2019, bagging 16 goals.
Staunchly determined to succeed, Oday’s domestic exploits meant the youngster was garnering attention across both Europe and the Middle East, with the then-20-year-old opting to make the move to Kuwait. In the face of European interest, one would assume that it would be the most desirable option, but once again Dabbagh displays the level-headedness that has held him in good stead thus far in his career.
“I chose Kuwait because it was my first professional experience, and I wanted to adapt in an Arab country first. It turned out to be a really good decision that prepared me for Europe later.”
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Despite the elation of securing his first professional contract abroad, Oday admits to having mixed feelings about leaving home. “My feelings were mixed… joy, sadness, and fear. But once you get on the plane, those feelings disappear because you know you’re going toward your goal and you have to achieve it. Of course, I missed my family and friends, and that was difficult. But I learned a lot, and it only strengthened my dedication to my dream.”
Since making the move to Kuwait, Oday has played in six different countries, and he can’t speak highly enough of the experiences he’s had, particularly the impact it has had on developing his style.
“I’m really happy I played in so many countries. I learned new cultures, met new people, and picked up different styles of football. It made me adaptable. With style, each place has its own identity, but you also get this mix of cultures from other players – music, fashion, food, language… That has shaped me a lot, on and off the pitch.”
(@IMAGO)
Thriving at club level, Oday’s most prolific achievements have come on the international stage. Representing Palestine, the striker has gone from strength to strength with the “Lions of Canaan,” becoming the nation’s all-time top scorer with 16 goals in 45 appearances. Not only is he putting the nation on his back on the pitch, but Oday is a proud ambassador of his Palestinian identity, as he doubles down on how important the role is to him.
“I believe that this did not come out of nowhere; it came as a result of continuous work and commitment. I am truly proud to be a representative of my country, and I certainly thank every person who supported me or helped me to reach this level. It is a great thing to be an ambassador for your country.”
But football isn’t the only medium through which the 26-year-old chooses to express himself. A self-proclaimed fashion head, Oday’s style is equally versatile and experimental. Perhaps that may come as no surprise, given the melting-pot of experiences he’s had playing in six different countries.
(Hussein Mardini – 3XV Sports)
Most importantly, Oday firmly believes in the power of fashion as a vehicle of self-expression and identity, “It’s very powerful. It gives us the space to be ourselves and to show the moments and experiences we’ve picked up along the way.”
Not only does he represent his identity through football and fashion, but his very name pays homage to the culture he holds most dear. Names possess significant meaning in Palestinian culture, and so with that in mind, I asked Oday what his name means, to which he said: “Adi is an old Arabic name that means ‘running’ or a ‘fast enemy.’ Quite ironic, when one considers his attributes on the field, with speed and tenacity key hallmarks of his game.
‘Surely with hardship comes ease’ – Surah Ash-Sharh (94:5-6)
A powerful verse from the Quran that serves as a reminder that every difficulty is accompanied with relief, and even in difficult situations, there are blessings and ease.
With hardship an inevitability in football, it is crucial to bounce back from tough situations, and I was keen to explore how Oday motivates himself during periods of difficulty in the game.
“I tell myself that I am here to achieve a goal, and I cannot give up. And that is how I overcome difficulties. I talk to myself and motivate myself every time. Then I have my family, faith, and a deeper dream to make a difference. I do want to inspire young players. And when I remind myself of all of these things, I never stop pushing forward.”
(Palestine National Team)
At just 26, Oday Dabbagh’s story is far from over; from making his mark domestically, to securing his first professional contract and leaving home at just 20, to now being the face of the franchise for his national team.
As he settles into the lively city of Cairo, surrounded by history, the forward has not once forgotten his roots. Motivated by his hardships, a determination to make his family proud, and fulfil his goals, Oday is fast “running” to the top as one of the most influential figures in the game, transcending the boundaries of football, fashion, and identity, not to mention the “fast enemy” being a constant thorn in the side of opposition defences.
After reflecting for the vast majority of this conversation, it seemed poignant to conclude by looking ahead, asking Oday what he would like his legacy to be.
“That I gave it my all on and off the pitch, and that I took that, and used it to make an impact for the next generation. And that next generation did the same.”
Forever selfless, Oday Dabbagh is an inspiration and a role model, determined to use his growing profile to embrace his identity and advocate against injustice. Dabbagh’s career thus far has been remarkable, but his story has just begun.
As he celebrates his 28th birthday, Marcus Rashford will no doubt be aiming to push on after his strong start to the season, racking up 11 goals and assists in just 11 starts. But while Rashy invariably looks forward, we decided to look back, paying homage to the work he’s done and the impact he’s had, especially off the pitch.
The Mancunian burst onto the scene back in 2016, introducing himself to the Old Trafford faithful with a brace in the Europa League against Midtjylland. That same week, Rashy bagged yet another brace, this time in the Premier League against Arsenal. Destined for greatness, the path hasn’t always been smooth, but one thing is for certain: Marcus Rashford is the voice of the streets.
More than a footballer, Rashford never forgets his roots. Not only did he force a government U-turn during the COVID pandemic over free school meals, but he has also built libraries in primary schools across the UK and consistently supported his former primary school in Wythenshawe. Not to mention linking up with Carl Anka to write inspirational books for children.
From books to the booth, it’s no secret Rashy rocks with Lil Baby – just look at the EFL Cup celebrations in 2023 with Jadon Sancho. MBE has also linked up with DBE, as well as fellow Mancuinian Meekz. After a tough few years, Rashford has been ‘DUE4AWIN’ for a while, and he’s running it back in style this season.
Coming a long way from matching fits with Jesse Lingard, Rashford knows how to put it on. But after making a stand for what’s right, and giving back to those less fortunate, a situation Rashford can personally relate to, the pendulum of favour shifted. Despite his positive contributions, his charitable work has often been weaponised against him, in response to normal fluctuations in form. As layering chains, and supporting the next generation of underprivileged children, became seemingly incompatible.
The backlash he faced after his trip to watch the New York Knicks last November, epitomises the intense scrutiny players face when simply expressing themselves, as most of the discourse challenged his professionalism and used his outfit as justification of said criticism.
First and foremost, Rashford looked fly as hell in his LV hoodie and chains, not to mention the dope gold grillz. But most importantly, why is it being used against him when he is entitled to rock whatever drip he wants to? The whole narrative in mainstream media around black footballers and black athletes in general when it comes to self-expression needs to be questioned.
There is a fine line between criticism and personal attacks, and it often feels as though the discourse is targeted at Marcus the person rather than Rashford the footballer.
Granted his form during the trip wasn’t the best but he would be the first to admit that. Ultimately, you can criticise his efficacy on the pitch, but a line must be drawn.
In a time of increased mental health awareness within football, the media must be held responsible for their persistent efforts to challenge his integrity as a human being. Rashford has made some mistakes, and he will likely continue to make them, but what individual in their twenties hasn’t? Whenever the media discusses Marcus Rashford, they mention his wages, cars, and clothes. Yet, there is complete silence when it comes to his positive work.
From 39, to 19, to 10, Rashford is on his way back to being number 1. Whether he’s backstage at DBE concerts or linking up with Prince William, Rashford has always been more than a footballer. A cultural icon for his playing style, philanthropy, and positive impact, it’s time we appreciated what he has achieved at a young age.
In the words of Marcus Rashford: “If you back me, good. If you doubt me, even better.”
Happy Birthday, Rashy.