Footballers are bringing bling back. In an era of the game dominated by regulation and conformity, player self-expression on the pitch is often limited.
New boots, the length of socks and fresh trims are examples of the little player personality we do see.
In the past, the essence of individual brilliance was epitomised by players rocking jewellery on the field, a hallmark of individuality and flair that has diminished in recent years. However, this next generation of ballers have shown they are not afraid to express themselves, so is it time to bring back accessories on the pitch?
As PSG celebrated their record 13th Ligue 1 title and consolidated their dominance of French domestic football, the triumph was made even more special as the squad were awarded iconic first-of-their-kind Ligue 1 championship medals. Designed by artist Mathias Kiss in collaboration with renowned French silverware brand Maison Christofle, the new medals ditched the traditional ribbon, opting for a chain.
Off the field, we have seen players embrace the opportunity to express themselves, especially through jewellery. But is it more than just a flex?
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This week, AC Milan player Rafael Leão commissioned the illustrious Benny Da Jeweler to create a one-of-one piece inspired by the place he grew up – Bairro da Jamaica, a neighbourhood in Amora, Portugal.
The pendant features 3D details, a satellite dish, mosaic settings and upside-down diamonds on the front with the phrase ‘never forget where you came from’ on the back. The piece is redefined in gold and ice, paying homage to the roots of one of football’s most expressive ballers.
The level of intention and detail behind the piece reiterates the significance of the pendant as more than just a vanity project, it’s a symbol of humility. Having made it out the ends, he has not lost sight of the value of his upbringing and the role it’s played in shaping his career.
Leao isn’t the first to redefine hardship and struggle into ice. Victor Oshimen is another player who has commissioned Benny Da Jeweller, tasking him with creating a one-of-one custom mask pendant to match the one he wears on the field. The result is an incredible piece, created using 1kg of rose gold and adorned with over 275 carats of diamonds.
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The pendant is more than just a fashion statement; it’s brimming with meaning. After suffering a fractured cheekbone and eye socket in a game against Inter Milan in November 2021, the Nigerian striker has been forced to wear the protective mask for the rest of his career. A symbol of strength and resilience, the custom piece is both a celebration of his journey and a reminder of the perseverance required to succeed in the world of sport.
A fitting tribute to the CAF Best African Player 2023 and current Turkish Champion, proving Naija no dey carry last.
The meaning behind players’ jewellery is a recurring theme, and Fulham FC’s Alex Iwobi is no different. Always rocking a prayer hands pendant, the Nigerian revealed that the piece was gifted to him by his parents, and he only ever takes it off for matchday. A symbol of his Christian faith, the midfielder also shared that his parents had blessed the piece, and so he always carries with him their support and love.
Medals to commemorate team successes are standard in the game, but what is less common in football compared to U.S. sports is celebratory team jewellery. While the NBA and NFL lead the way with championship rings, football has remained ardent in its use of medals.
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This changed in 2019, as Paul Pogba and Antoine Griezmann commissioned Jason of Beverly Hills to create personalised NBA-style championship rings for each member of the 2018 World Cup-winning French squad.
Adorned with a diamond-encrusted Tricolore face, the ring also featured scores in each of their knockout games on one side, along with the name and squad number of the ring owner on the other.
Given the magnitude of the occasion and the significance of winning a World Cup, it’s only right that Pogba was the first to bring championship rings into the beautiful game. Making a historic occasion that much colder.
Similarly, after Spain’s triumph in the 2024 Euros, Aymeric Laporte commissioned British jeweller MJ Jones to create 90 gold pendants for the national team. Crafted from gold and diamonds, the pendant featured the player’s name and number, with pieces also gifted to each member of staff. To mark the occasion, Jones created custom-made boxes with screens built in to display a showreel of the entire celebration.
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Too often, footballers who choose to rock jewellery are accused of flexing and being materialistic. However, there is usually meaning behind it, as these pieces are hugely symbolic and personal to each player.
It is encouraging to see ballers be more expressive and creative with their custom pieces as they seek to commemorate key experiences or values that have shaped them in their careers. And who’s to say you can’t look fly while paying homage to the ends or reaffirming your faith?
