Features
Ole Romeny Keeps His Head High
“Would you rather be the person talking, or the person doing all the things that people talk about?”
With an Instagram following of 1.8 million, Ole Romeny is the talk of the town. But, in the words of one of his favourite artists, Dave, he much prefers to let others do the talking for him.
It was a Tuesday afternoon, a slight chill in the air. Arriving at the set, the graffiti-laden streets and artisan coffee shops provided the perfect backdrop for a baller whose stylistic preference is “a mix of streetwear.” He rocked up runway-ready, decked out in his signature aesthetic.
Ever since he touched down in England in January, moving to Oxford United from FC Utrecht, the 24-year-old has made serious waves. In the land of degrees rocking heat you can’t teach, he’s taking everyone to school with his run on the ‘gram.
But as he joined us for an exclusive cover shoot to discuss his many ‘Firsts’, it was clear his fits were an extension of his personality. A chill guy by nature, his excitement and curiosity when greeting the crew and learning about the plan for the day a reminder of his innate authenticity.
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Walking through the various options laid out before him, he made it clear, “I want to present my style.” Shunning a Moncler x Rick Owen Jacket for a more familiar Stone Island coat. Despite feeling the piece, it wasn’t an accurate reflection of him. Throughout the entire selection process, he was very intentional and considerate of both his personal preferences and the structure of the shoot. The extensive thought behind all the fits reiterated the care in how he presents himself and the irrefutable bond between fashion and personality.
For him, it is more about the aesthetic than the brand. A brief scroll of his Instagram confirms his commitment to a classy combination of streetwear with a distinct focus on complementary pieces rather than labels.
Born and raised in Nijmegen, the forward shared that his interest in fashion emerged in his teens. “I think when I started to earn my own money. When I didn’t have a salary or money, my mother bought me stuff, and I just wore it. But when I got my salary, at 16, 17. I thought, “Hey, let’s try some things and see what I like.”
Now a seasoned pro with a distinctive taste, he is treating the streets of Oxford like a Fashion Week runway. The blend of historical architecture and contemporary essence has given him the perfect canvas to turn it up a notch. Providing the ultimate setting for his effortlessly cool yet chic streetwear looks.
Despite previously playing for the Netherlands youth team, Romeny recently decided to represent the Indonesian national team – known as Timnas. Eligible through his grandmother, who was born in Medan, North Sumatra. Looking back on his first impression of Jakarta, he convinced the entire team to make the trip.
“My first impression of Jakarta was the first time I went there to watch a game and meet the guys. It is a beautiful city with tall buildings and is really nice. It was like you were sitting in a movie, you know? For me, it was so different from Europe. Also, the humidity was crazy; it was so hot. But really, really beautiful city.”
His reputation amongst the locals as a certified fashionista has earned him the nickname El Skena (The Scenery) for his indisputable flair. Recalling his initial reaction to the nickname, he laughed and admitted he was “proud” of the title.
“It was funny because I saw it for a long time in the comments of my post. Elskena, Elskena, Elskena, and I was like, what is this? I tried to translate it on Instagram, but there was no translation. So, when I was in Indonesia, I asked people what it meant. And they said you’re a stylish guy with fashion. So it was really funny that they have it as a nickname, but it’s really big.”
His connection to the Republic was woven throughout his childhood as he reflected on his relationship with his grandmother. Fondly reminiscing over the Indonesian cuisine she used to make, his face visibly beaming with pride as he honoured her memory. And every time he pulls on the red and white jersey, he plays with her in mind – committed to making her proud.
“My grandmother, when she was still alive, always used to make Indonesian food. Like nasi goreng, rice with chicken. It was my favourite food back then and I grew up with the food, so I love it.”
Praising the “magical fans,” his ambitions with the team go beyond being a fashion icon. Lauding the “potential of the country,” he is determined to make them the “best team in Asia.” And boy has he started his international career with aplomb.
El Skena is currently two for two with goals for the national team, spearheading them to a 1-0 win over Bahrain in the most recent World Cup Qualifiers. Rocking the number 10 shirt and playing with the memory of his grandmother firmly lodged in his mind, this baller will not rest until he puts his team on the map. With Patrick Kluivert as his gaffer, it is no surprise that the nation’s sweetheart has been moving clinical in front of goal, also bagging on his debut in the previous game against Australia. Putting the rest of Asia on alert that OR10 is in town.
When quizzed on how it felt to play in front of 70,000 Indonesian fans for the first time, the forward couldn’t speak highly enough of the support. And as he recollected the emotions of his ‘First’ home game, he was engulfed with pride – just as when he spoke about his grandmother. It means more to him, and he will not stop until he leads Indonesia to the biggest stage.
“It was unbelievable! People always ask me how it felt to be on the pitch, but the energy the fans gave, I’ve never seen anywhere else. Winning and scoring, it was magical.”
Renowned for keeping his head high, his trademark celebration is a symbol of strength and perseverance even in the darkest, most challenging of times. When probed about its origin, he revealed that it emerged during a difficult period in his professional career.
“I came up with Noah Ohio at Utrecht, and we weren’t playing at the time, so we were in a period when we talked a lot about life and setbacks. We told each other when we scored that we would do it. Then I went to England, and when I scored my first goal, I did it. It is a reminder to keep your head up and be positive in dark, difficult times. Also, in Indonesia, the platform you have reaches so many people. So it was a beautiful message, and they received it nicely. So many people are tagging me every day, and everyone is doing it. Even a badminton player won, and he did it. So they really love it.”
Throughout the day, the tunes were blasting through the speaker. In between shots, as the team set up for a new scene, he asked me who was on the aux, and I confessed that the recent selection of tracks had all been mine. The song that piqued his interest most was ‘CANZONE D’ODIO’ by Lazza ft Lil Baby, and he asked me to send it to him afterwards. Bonding over our mutual appreciation for Lil Baby, we agreed that the best version of Baby is when he gets into his emotional bag. He mentioned ‘I Promise’ and ‘So Sorry’ as two songs from his recent album that he particularly enjoys.
“I used to like A Boogie Wit da Hoodie a lot when I was 16, 17. But now I’m really into Future, Gunna, and Lil Baby.”
Diving into his musical preferences, we were reminded he was only 24. His favourite artist growing up was A Boogie Wit da Hoodie, although he was quick to remind us that this was when he was 16 years old – and I mean, who didn’t have an A Boogie phase? Now, he is tuned into Future, Lil Durk, and Lil Baby. However, his interests aren’t limited to the US.
Despite being in England for just a few months, he’s locked into the rap scene. The first artist he watched live “was Dave in Amsterdam in like 2018,” and he was quick to let us know he had also seen D-Block Europe in the same city. He also paid homage to Skepta, Central Cee, Nemzzz, and Nines, especially for that “legendary” Fire in the Booth.
The vibe during the shoot was super chill, with Romeny feeling part of the group despite only spending a few hours with us. His integration with the team was most evident when asked about the first Indonesian song he listened to. After a brief intermission to Shazam, the exact name of the track from one of his IG posts, a few blunders in the pronunciation had the entire group in stitches. Some had to look away and avoid eye contact with Ole to stop him from laughing. After a few attempts, we managed to get the answer out in one piece. That moment of shared laughter throughout the group reiterated how comfortable he was. It’s this same confidence that he exudes through his fashion. It’s not just what you wear, but how you wear it.
“It was Garam Dan Madu (by Tenxi). We had it on in the dressing room after we won against Bahrain. I heard the song and I thought, hey this is a good song, so I would say that one.”
When tasked with completing the FF Playlist challenge, with three minutes to compile a selection of songs to share with the community, he decided to ‘cheat’ and use his playlist to curate a selection. After an initial gaff with finding his playlist, he managed to get a few tracks added despite panicking about the ones he missed out on. With matchday vibes in mind, he focussed on hype, energy, and motivational tracks, telling us how important music is in his matchday preparation. As with most players, the forward admitted that you need to go into a game feeling like “I’m Him,” with confidence being a crucial part of playing well.
However, feeling confident isn’t just limited to the tracks he plays, as he divulged the contents of his washbag, which included headphones, moisturiser, perfume, and hair powder.
“Look good, feel good, play good.”
As he acclimatises to the demands of the Championship and settles into life in England, expect Ole Romeny to keep levelling up. One-of-one, he’s made the streets of OX1 his own. Curating IG dumps with the same vision as Steven Spielberg, this baller is the poster boy for the cool kid aesthetic.
At 24, he’s the shining light of a footballing nation looking to make its mark on the international stage. Leading the line, both literally and figuratively, empowered by the Timnas’ formidable support and the memory of his grandmother, he’s got big ambitions.
Representing a population of 285 million, he has become a neighbourhood hero, inspiring the next generation of youngsters who wanna be just like him.
Heavy is the head that wears the crown, but Ole is always keeping his head high.
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.