Features
Alex Iwobi on childhood drip, giving back and Hannah Montana
“I want to be someone who always tries to bring a smile to people’s faces,” Alexander Iwobi tells me on the legacy he wishes to leave when the time arrives to hang up his boots.
The 26-year-old cuts a relaxed but youthful figure from his Manchester home roughly forty-five minutes from Goodison Park. Assured with his words but never lacking energy with each response he gives, Iwobi strays far from the robotic nature some athletes have become accustomed to, making him one of Gen-Z’s favourite personalities.
The Everton midfielder is speaking just a week after travelling to Belfast to support Emonsi, a multi-sports organisation focused on diversifying sports for ethnic minorities alongside his platform Project 17. “Football has given me the opportunity to enjoy life, so I’m trying to give that back to other people. I’m a normal person as well as a footballer that just loves good vibes.”
“Me especially, I don’t notice how big of an influence we have on people until, for example, I go to Northern Ireland. Sometimes I think they’ll just see me as someone else, but when you go and you see how it makes them so happy when you share your experiences, it’s life-changing.”
Alexander Iwobi at home, photographed by Shane Bain.
Born in Lagos of Nigeria, Iwobi was raised in London where his journey to the Premier League would begin, rising through the ranks at North London club Arsenal after joining as an eight-year-old.
The Gunners are known for producing well-dressed ballers. Joe Willock, Reiss Nelson and Serge Gnabry are just three examples and interest in fashion started young for those at Hale End, admits Iwobi. “Everyone had a look. At Hale End, in my age [group], everyone was looking to dress clean and making sure you take care of yourself with what you were wearing.”
“At that time, Chuba Akpom was the best-dressed. He got an adidas deal and he used to dress just adidas and he’d make it look sick. He had a high-top and high-tops were the thing at that time so he made it look wavey, so I’d say Chuba was the man with the drip back then.”
Though the ever-growing popularity of the Premier League allows many of its players to experience financial freedom, it wasn’t always as simple to purchase the latest trends for Iwobi: “When I was growing up, my Mum used to put me in GAP. If you had a GAP jumper at school, you were the man,” he says.
Alex Iwobi wears a Prada double match poplin shirt, photographed by Shane Bain.
“At secondary school and at all the discos, if you had the latest astros and jeans, you were the man. K Swiss’ were a big thing back then too. If you had Prada or True Religion jeans, you were the man. But me? I just about made it to Lyle & Scott and Voi jeans. I couldn’t get the True Religions, if I did I was done, my Mum would have been angry at me.”
“I had a black Ralph Lauren tracksuit with the red horse but I remember I asked my Dad to get me one and he was like ‘yeah, no problem’. “I thought something was wrong, he came back with one and the horse was facing the wrong way,” he says holding back his laughter.
“I was like nahhh, it was mad! The jockey with the stick was bent, I said to my Dad ‘nah come on man, I’d rather you just get a plain shirt than a fake ting!’ But my parents tried for me, man.”
Iwobi’s appreciation for his family comes as no surprise. The Nigerian regularly has friends – who he now labels his brothers – stay over for days at a time and today is no different. “If we’re all in the house, it’s a battle for the speaker and whose music is the loudest,” he tells me.
Alex Iwobi, photographed by Shane Bain.
“Music is a big part of my life. I’m always listening to music. Every Friday, there’s a new album that comes out so I’ll listen to the latest tunes and then during the week it’s just on shuffle. My favourite track right now? I’m going to go with my anthem, 5500 Degrees by EST Gee, Lil Baby, Rylo Rodriguez and 42 Dugg.”
The conversation on music also presents the opportunity to find out what players are listening to behind closed doors aside from the usual rotation of Lil Baby, Gunna and Drake. The topic of guilty pleasures comes up and the presence of Iwobi’s friends provides a glimpse into his everyday personality.
“My guilty pleasure? Why you smiling?”, he says in the direction of his friend Michael who is watching on in the corner of the room: “You know what I’m going to say,” Michael responds with a grin on his face. “Go on, say it,” prompts Iwobi.
“You listen to Hannah Montana and that,” Michael says sending the room into laughter. “When’s the last time I listened to Hannah Montana?,” Iwobi fires back. “There are phases because obviously, it takes me back to my youth days if I listen to High School Musical songs or something.”
The Iwobi’s, photographed by Shane Bain.
After taking a brief second to think of his ultimate guilty pleasure, he breaks into song: “Hey now, hey now,” he sings from Hilary Duff’s ‘What Dreams Are Made Of’. “That was a phase so yeah, I’ll go with Hilary Duff. At our grown ages you know,” he says shaking his head with a smile.
The increased demand from young football fans to see authenticity from athletes makes Iwobi a shining light in a sport filled with media-managed athletes and robotic personalities. Through his Instagram and Snapchat, Iwobi offers an insight into his life through daily uploads from the training ground, his home or when he’s out and about, giving his followers real-time access into the life of a footballer.
“I like to show that at the end of the day, I’m human and I’m just like everyone else. I do like to have a bit of fun, hence why I’m always with my people just bantering and vibing. Obviously, you have to take football seriously if you want to get to the top but you can have fun with it and that’s what I’m trying to show people really.”
One of the ways Iwobi has utilised his social media was through showcasing team-mate Dele Alli’s drip before his recent switch to Beşiktaş. The content, which saw Iwobi record the outfit worn by the former Tottenham midfielder at training each day, was loved by fans online with many weighing in their own opinion on each outfit. “A lot of people like to show off their personality through their fashion and Dele’s obviously one of them,” he says.
Alex Iwobi upstairs at home, photographed by Shane Bain.
“He’s someone that likes to wear loud clothes and he’s a very expressive person. Nobody is safe in my changing room. If you come in the latest drip, if you come in too nice… Because I like to come to training chilled, so if you’re coming to training a bit ‘oooo’, I’ll be like ‘oooo, where are you going?!’ But Dele loves the cameras, he loves me to put it on him and he’s always asking me like ‘Alex, come on, fit of the day’, but it’s good, everyone should dress how they want to dress.”
One of the criticisms levelled at footballers with an interest in fashion is the lack of focus on the pitch, something Dele has had to deal with heavily in recent months and the likes of Héctor Bellerín and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have also been hit with the accusation in the past.
For Iwobi, it’s about finding a balance between football and outside passions. “As long as you’re able to get that balance, you can have those other interests,” he tells me. “Some pundits will not agree with it because once a player isn’t performing to the standards they’re capable of, that’s when people are like ‘ah, he needs to relax on these other habits and focus on football’.”
“At the end of the day, we are footballers and that’s what we’re paid to do, so people want us to do the best we can for the club but if you’re able to get the balance right, then explore and do whatever makes you happy.”
Alex Iwobi at home, photographed by Shane Bain.
There’s a widespread belief in football that because of the fast cars, flashy jewellery and lavish lifestyles, players should be able to take the criticism and abuse sent their way without being affected. The ‘I’d take all the abuse in the world for that sort of money’ is a common line thrown around by many, which of course is a nonsensical ideology.
Amidst the pressures and constant demands of the game in addition to the personal life struggles we all suffer, it would be nigh-on-impossible for players to never find themselves in tough times mentally and Iwobi admits he too has found it difficult in the past. “My first couple of years with Everton, I went quiet on the media.”
“But now, with the help of Project 17, even if I’m going through bad times I’ll share that experience so people understand that it’s not always rosy, it’s not always a success story,” Iwobi reveals. “You have to go through difficult patches so that’s the only thing I’m trying to add. If I’m going through something, I can still voice it out to people.”
“Like I say, we are human. We do have emotions as well so it’s normal for us to go through mental battles. I feel like the more you’re able to speak on it and get help, the better. It’s never good to suffer in silence.”
Alex Iwobi up close, photographed by Shane Bain.
With football x fashion continuing to rise and luxury fashion brands tapping into young consumers through the use of football’s biggest stars, the NBA presents itself as a source of inspiration to many players given the fashion culture that exists in basketball. Pre-game fits, better known as tunnel fits, allow players to wear whatever they want as they arrive at each arena, encouraging the self-expression of athletes and the growth of the game by adding a new element to the sport.
In football, whilst there’s not believed to be any kind of definitive dress code, players usually rock tracksuits with club sponsors on and for the biggest games, most teams will arrive in suits. There have been early signs of it being introduced to football through Barcelona players such as Memphis Depay and Jules Koundé arriving at Camp Nou in outfits of their own choice of late and in the MLS, players regularly look to recreate the NBA culture.
Like Marcus Thuram, it’s something Iwobi would want to see in the game: “I enjoy the NBA when they walk in, I can’t lie. It looks sick. I’m sure the club want me to be coming in my tracksuit, but yeah I would go hard to games. I’d come how they [NBA players] come with their latest Goyard bags and all of that. The only thing that’s stressful would be making sure every week you’re patterned but apart from that, it looks sick and I enjoy it.”
“If they’re watching us, they must be bored sick of seeing tracksuits all the time,” Iwobi jokes. “But tunnel fits in football? I would like that.”
Alex Iwobi relaxes in his cinema room, photographed by Shane Bain.
Spending time with Iwobi was yet another reminder of why the stereotype footballers are labelled with couldn’t be further from the truth. In a life full of financial freedom and the ability to buy most that he desires, he labels a bracelet gifted to him by his Mum as the most valuable piece of clothing/jewellery he possesses.
Having suggested we cut part of the shoot out to spend less time in his hair, he reassures me we could have more time to fulfil the original plan, despite having already spent considerable time in his home on a day he had also had training.
If the character of Iwobi was not already visible by this point, the thirty-minute lift he gave me to the hotel I was staying at – preventing an expensive taxi ride and an additional train journey into the centre of Manchester – hammered home his aforementioned point. He is human like everyone else, but an incredible one at that.
Imagery Shot By: Shane Bain
Styled By: Alexander Iwobi himself
Location: Manchester, England
‘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.