Features
Oliver Arblaster Is Primed For Take Off
There are very few players, at such a young age, who experience the tremendous highs and lows the game of football has to offer. However, for Sheffield United’s Oliver Arblaster, his career so far has very much been a tale of two halves. From Premier League euphoria to ACL tragedy, this is the story of Oliver Arblaster’s come-up and comeback.
As I arrive at an unassuming location in Canary Wharf for an exclusive photoshoot for the Footballer Fits x Suavo clothing collection, the imminent arrival of one of the Championship’s brightest stars looms large. However, contrary to many stereotypes often associated with burgeoning talents, the warm greeting offered by Oli was a pleasant surprise — and as the day progressed, it became evident that he is just a nice guy.
Rising to acclaim in Sheffield United’s most recent Premier League campaign, the 21-year-old made his mark in the second half of the 2023/2024 season. Thrown into the mix by Chris Wilder, the midfielder took to the Premier League like a fish to water. From his debut as a substitute against Arsenal to his first start in a draw against Bournemouth, the effervescent rookie was consistently eclipsing experienced campaigners. The Club’s Player of the Month for March was on top of the world when he captained his boyhood club at Old Trafford, a memory he will never forget.
View this post on Instagram
“I only really knew about an hour and a half before the game when we got to the ground. I was checking out the pitch initially when the manager told me that I was going to be captain, and to be honest, I did pinch myself a couple of times thinking, Am I really going to walk out here? And then when it actually happened, it took me back a bit — but it was really good. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to win, but it’s something that I’d just love to go back to and play in again and have that first-time experience again.”
After a heartbreaking end to the previous season, coming so close to returning to the top-flight, the youngster is not shy of reiterating his commitment to taking the club back where it belongs. “That’s the aim. As a boyhood Sheffield United fan, I wanted to stay and play for Sheffield United, and I’ve managed to play a fair few games now for them. Hopefully, this season will be another strong season; we just fell short last year. So I’m hoping I can get back fit and we do well this season, and that’d be my aim for definitely.”
Unfortunately, Oli is no stranger to disappointment in football, and after a flying start in the 24/25 season, his ability to contribute to the club’s promotion push last year was curtailed by an ACL injury suffered in November, which ruled him out for the rest of the season.
When asked about his reaction to the injury, the 21-year-old spoke with refreshing honesty and a maturity well beyond his years. “It was tough because this was my first serious injury, and it does knock you back a bit. But it’s just part and parcel of the game. It’s not ideal; there’s never a good time for it to happen. But if I could get it out of the way earlier in my career, then hopefully I can come back stronger and I’ll be better from it as a person as well.”
As we bonded over our shared experience of recovering from ACL surgery, from the struggle to get up the stairs, sitting down in the shower and difficulties with sleep, it became apparent that the mental impact of the injury is equal to, if not greater than, the physical challenges. Supporters often don’t see behind the curtain, and Oli was willing to give insight into his experience, offering a valuable lesson in the difficulties footballers face when recovering from such significant injuries.
“It took me a good couple of months to get my head around what had happened, because it all just happened so quickly. You don’t have any time to think about it, you’re straight in for surgery, and then you’re back, trying to start a long road to recovery. Looking back at it now, I didn’t know how many good and bad days I would go through. But I feel like it’s about not getting too high when times are good, and not getting too low when it’s not going so good. The experience it has put me through, I feel, will make me a better person, mentally. And, when I come through the other side of it, I’ll definitely be better for it.”
Given the typically extensive recovery time for an ACL injury, between 8 and 12 months, I was curious about how he found the monotony of recovery and what he did away from football to switch off. “It’s tough because some training days are horrible, some of the things you’re doing over and over again. Then there’s testing you have to do each month to see what your strength is like, and they’re not fun. I think I watched a video of Roy Keane when he was testing on this chair for his quad muscles, and I’ve done that a fair few times in these last eight months.” [laughs]
“I try to keep my outside life separate from football. I’m someone who I’ll always have to keep myself busy — my missus knows that. I don’t like sitting and thinking about stuff, so I’ll go out with my family and my friends, and go for a game of golf when I was alright to do so. But having good people around you really helps.”
Far from a seasoned professional both on the pitch and in front of the camera, the 21-year-old took the day in his stride. And as the shoot progressed, Oli became increasingly confident, posing in the latest FF x Suavo collection with the same swagger he rocks on the pitch. However, despite his youthfulness, the midfielder has undergone a personal journey when it comes to his wardrobe.
“Nowadays, I like to be a bit different. I used to be someone who’d just buy designer brands, but I feel like I’m finding my own style — not wearing the same, plain things. Not as rascal as Tom Davies, but I definitely pay more of a conscious effort to what I wear now than I did a few years ago.”
And as I quiz him on the best and worst dressed in the team, he’s quick to answer. “Femi Seriki has got the worst dress sense, just because it’s always Louis Vuitton trainers every day.” He’s also quick to praise team-mate Harrison Burrows — “I think he’s got a good dress sense, to be fair. He’ll be buzzing with that.”
In between outfits, Oli was keeping a keen eye on the Belgian Grand Prix, admitting he didn’t want to watch it until he got home. But, as I peer over to the screen and watch Lando Norris’ poor start, I find it hard not to share the news. As we discussed F1, with Arblaster admitting his favourite driver is Lewis Hamilton, albeit this season he’s rooting for Norris in the McLaren, it was evident how engrossed he was in the sport. Admitting he’s an avid fan, I asked what it is about watching other sports that he enjoys most.
“I think it’s just a completely different thing for me, and I just love how they go about their lifestyle. I think if I could swap with any job, that’s what I’d want to be, an F1 driver. Just because you get to do all this travelling and go to different places. It’s just a different work environment, and it’s something I just loved watching. I just love watching all the different sports. Golf, darts, Formula 1. Tennis. I do watch football as well, but I play football every day, so something that I can watch that’s different, I like to do that.”
At the very mention of golf, I let out a fairly audible sigh. Unfortunately, I’ve never understood the hype around golf amongst footballers, but Arblaster was keen to explain his interest in the sport, despite being 21 years old.
“I got into golf a couple of years ago, it’s just one of those sports that’s so frustrating, but I think it’s just the hardest sport to do, and I’ve just always wanted to get better at golf. I’ll play awful for four hours and be so annoyed, but then I’ll hit an amazing shot, and it gives you a different feeling to what football gives you. They’re just two completely different feelings. And it’s just social, innit? People in my family play, my close friends, and the lads at football will go after training. Honestly, I just love playing golf — it’s the best.”
Despite his passionate plea, I was still unconvinced, and as I pushed back, suggesting it’s a sport tailored more towards 60-year-olds at the latter stage of their career, Oli was quick to respond. “See, I was the same. Three, four years ago, I never wanted to go for a round of golf, but if I’m on my day off or whatever, I’ll want to go and play golf, because it’s something that I just wanted to do.”
View this post on Instagram
And as we continued to discuss his interests away from the game, Oli mentioned he was at the Drake concert in Manchester the night before — now this was something I was more than happy to engage in. Particularly as his profile grows, and the opportunity for anonymity declines with every appearance, music concerts offer a respite from the high-pressure environment of football.
“Well, I just see myself as a normal person anyway. But, just going to things like that, it’s just something I like doing. It just helps me take my mind off football, especially now I’ve been injured. Just different things that I enjoy doing help me cope with life when I’m back in football day to day because it’s ruthless. You’re pushing yourself every day to get back fit, so anything that I can do to switch off is good. And, it was a good night. “
On the topic of concerts, he also admits to seeing Oasis a few weeks prior, and as I set up to ask which he enjoyed more, the 21-year-old grins in anticipation of a tough question. “So I like Drake better, I do. But I think Oasis was probably a better all-together atmosphere. I think it was probably played better, and the atmosphere was probably better, but I obviously listen to Drake a lot more than Oasis. But I just love them both, it was good.”
Given his affinity for Drake, I was interested to learn who the midfielder would place in his top 5 artists, and the answers were a welcome surprise. Beyond the typical shouts of‘’Drake,’ ‘Lil Baby,’ and ‘Chris Brown,’ I was pleased to hear him acknowledge both ‘Adele’ and ‘Don Toliver.’
As the day drew to an end, with Oli keen to pack up a few of the fits he modelled for the shoot, the gratitude and respect with which he bid goodbye to the crew stuck out. Purposefully acknowledging and addressing every single member of the team individually as he worked his way around the room in preparation for his departure, it was a gesture of genuine kindness that summarised his character.
Dutiful and humble, this rising star has all the ingredients to go to the very top of the game, and after his performance in front of the camera, I can imagine a Paris Fashion Week appearance isn’t far off either. Before his departure, he comes over and thanks me for the interview, tongue-in-cheek as he offers clarity on the interview audio because of his accent — a humorous gesture, but one which reiterates his innate authenticity.
A tale of two halves so far, this baller is on his way back, and he’s coming for everything, so remember the name — Oliver Arblaster is going right to the very top.
‘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.”
View this post on Instagram
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.