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The Rise Of Oday Dabbagh: Identity, Fashion, And Faith
‘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.”
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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.
Last night, Real Madrid and Barcelona went head-to-head in arguably one of the most anticipated El Clásico matches in recent times. Despite Real Madrid walking away with all three points, courtesy of goals from Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham, the real winner was football.
El Clásico has always been, and will always be, a fixture brimming with tensions, given the extensive rivalry between the two clubs, not to mention the historical significance of the match-up.
The rivalry arguably hit its peak back in 2010, following the appointment of Jose Mourinho as Real Madrid manager. Determined to shatter Barcelona’s domestic dominance, Mourinho’s impact on the rivalry between the two teams was so extensive that it seeped into the Spanish national team, with international teammates divided by their club allegiances.
However, in recent years, many would argue that the rivalry, once famed for its hostility, has lost its edge. Why this is the case is open to interpretation, but what is clear after last night’s game is that El Clásico is well and truly back.
A key protagonist in the reignition of this rivalry has been 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who, despite his youth, has become a key figurehead of the new wave of football. Adored for his expressiveness on the pitch, Yamal is equally as expressive off it, and his most recent comments before the match were exactly what was needed to reignite the El Clásico flame.
In the week leading up to the game, Lamine Yamal attended Kings League, a seven-a-side football tournament established by Barcelona legend Gerard Piqué. Comparing Spanish streamer Ibai Lamos’ team, Porcinos, to Real Madrid, the youngster said “they steal, they complain…” and when asked if he thinks he will score at the Bernabeu, Yamal cooly replied “Don’t you remember last season?”
Further stoking the flames of tension, Yamal followed up his comments with a photo of himself celebrating after a goal at the Bernabeu last season, with Madrid fans angrily gesturing towards him in the background.
Safe to say, Real Madrid were far from amused with the youngster’s comments, as reports emerged that the dressing room was angry with him, but were determined to use the comments as fuel to triumph over their bitter rivals.
Throughout the game, there were numerous infraction points, but it was after the final whistle that tempers really boiled over, as Pedri was sent off following a second yellow card offence. A melee ensued, with Madrid players keen to voice their grievances towards Lamine Yamal. Carvajal told him, “You talk too much. Speak now,” and he wasn’t the only one, as Vinicius Jr also reportedly told him “Talk now!”
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Revelling in their glory, Madrid players also took to Instagram to clap back at the youngster, most notably Jude Bellingham, who captioned his post: “Talk is cheap. HALA MADRID SIEMPRE!!!” – a clear dig at his rival, the post has since garnered almost 5 million likes in under 24 hours.
With bragging rights up for grabs, not to mention the three points, the build-up to the match and the tension between both sides meant fans got to witness an absolute classic.
Trash-talking is a key feature of US sports, particularly the NBA and NFL, as athletes are emboldened to speak openly about rival teams and players. Often leading to highly contested match-ups, as the rivalries become real.
Last night’s match-up is arguably the biggest example of how trash-talking can enhance football, and empowering players to speak freely will only benefit the game. Not only did the game have more than 650 million viewers worldwide, according to Spanish outlet Diario AS, but players themselves enjoyed the pre-match animosity.
Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, speaking after the game, said: “Look, honestly, I like that Lamine Yamal talks and stuff. I like when there’s a bit of a thing between the players, you know? – It helps for competition between clubs.”
Players have become increasingly emboldened to express themselves on social media, and fans have responded positively to it. Whether it’s Djed Spence adding club teammate Brennan Johnson to his penitentiary, or Amadou Onana sending a cheeky jibe to Spence after Aston Villa’s win against Spurs – “#penitentiarywasopen👀”
While he may be the most high-profile player to vocalise his opinions on his rivals, Lamine Yamal is far from the only player to do so – instead, he represents a broader shift in today’s game.
Not only is it encouraging to see players share their personalities publicly with supporters, but it adds an edge to the game, and by creating these authentic rivalries, fans become increasingly invested. As we continue to shift away from conventional media-trained answers, the new generation of ballers has shown that they’re willing to talk their s***.
Swapping the tabloids for Twitch, not only do players have their own platforms, with considerable audiences, but by taking control of their narratives, they provide an extra layer of entertainment to the game, one that it needs.
Rather than shying away from it or criticising players, like Yamal, who are outspoken, we should be relishing a new era of players talking their s***, whether they back it up or not; it all adds to the overall product and levels up the game.