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Timothy Weah talks Afrobeats, New Balance and living like a butterfly
“I hope I have an impact on the world in a sense where people look at me as a young kid living his dreams and living his life,” Timothy Weah says from the living room sofa of his Lille home.
It’s a wet and miserable Wednesday in the North of France with showers and grey skies having persisted from morning ’till evening. Despite this, the mood of the Les Dogues star could not be more different.
The 22-year-old has spent the majority of his day on set for a shoot with New Balance promoting a new, unreleased boot alongside the Boston-founded brand and with time now heading deep into the evening, Weah would be forgiven for lacking energy, as any person would.
But Timothy Weah is not just any person. Nor is he what you think.
Timothy Weah at home. Photography by Shane Bain.
Like New Balance, Weah originates from the United States. Born in New York, a city that birthed fashion icons such as A$AP Rocky, Weah credits his birthplace for his style. “We all know that New York is one of the most influential places to go for fashion, alongside Paris,” he says.
“Growing up in New York, you get a bit of everything. You have people from uptown, the Bronx who are particularly Spanish so you get that flavour. You got the Jamaicans who live in Queens and you got the Irish people that also live in Queens, so you get a mix of different things and you take inspiration from everyone. I think that’s what you get in the fashion culture as well as the music culture.”
Alongside NYC, it would also be his father’s interest in fashion that ignited the spark in Weah that has made him one of football’s flyest characters. “My interest in fashion started very early. Growing up with a father that was an athlete, he was also into fashion having lived in Italy, France and all these different places. He had Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and Dior in his closet so I’d see all of that and I’d be like ‘damn, one day when I make it I want to get all this stuff too!’.”
That day has already arrived for Weah. With a designer-filled wardrobe of his own and a Ligue 1 title to his name before turning twenty-three, he now has the backing of a global brand in New Balance who have positioned him at the forefront of their mission to take over not just the game, but the world.
“New Balance has been huge for me,” Weah says whilst donning the brand from head to toe. “Their motto is about feeling free and feeling like you can do whatever you want, showing the world that you’re fearless, you know? They gave me an opportunity to really express myself and do the things I really want to do.”
“With the photoshoots we have, I have a say in it and with the videos and content we make, I have a say. It’s fun knowing I can use the platform they’ve given me to train both my fashion sense and creativeness and dive into those situations.”
The brand’s rise has seen global superstars such as the NBA’s Kahwi Leonard, rapper Jack Harlow and the multi-talented Jaden Smith sign with New Balance in recent years with Raheem Sterling, Sadio Mané and Bukayo Saka now rocking the iconic NB logo in the football scene alongside Weah.
Though hugely popular already, Weah believes the continued growth of the brand is only just getting started. “For me, New Balance is the best brand right now and I’m so happy that I’m with them,” he tells me.
“If you look five years before now, personally, I didn’t really see a lot of people rocking New Balance and if you look today, their shoes are everywhere. Everyone wants a 550!”
Timothy Weah x New Balance. Photography by Shane Bain.
“They’re clean, they’re slick and I think New Balance is perfect for the stage and culture that we’re currently in. Their collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore is probably the craziest thing out there right now. Personally, I believe New Balance is already the biggest shoe brand, without a doubt, but they’re definitely going to be the best for some time to come.”
If you’re yet to jump on the New Balance wave, it’d be hard to believe you haven’t been living under a rock. There’s no need to panic, though. I ask Weah which product he would recommend to a first-time customer. His response?
“I’d tell them to be simple. You want to go with the fresh 550s. For me, as I said earlier, it’s one of the cleanest shoes around. I’m huge on shoes, I’m a shoe-head! One of the hardest shoes I have right now is the New Balance x Joe Freshgoods. Crazy colourway, the quality of the shoe, the material used… it’s something that a lot of people wouldn’t know how to style but those are the hardest shoes I have.”
Before entering his mid-twenties, Weah has already played in the U.S., France and Scotland having had spells with the New York Red Bulls, Paris Saint-Germain and Celtic before returning to France with Lille in 2019. Living in three vastly different countries has given him the opportunity to see different cultures and styles that others may not get to experience, something he says has shaped the way he sees fashion.
“I feel like the style in every place I’ve been has been very different but for me, I always say just because it’s different doesn’t mean it’s not fashion. You feel me? If one person dresses one way, that’s how they see it and that’s their vision,” he tells me passionately.
“It’s just like art. Jean-Michael Basquait was painting his type of way and Andy Warhol was painting a different type of way but when they came together, it was something beautiful. I think it’s the same thing with fashion. Everyone has their own fashion sense and it’s beautiful in their own way. I love and respect it, it’s a way for people to express themselves and show who they are.”
The conversation around self-expression brings us onto the rise of football x fashion and the differing styles of players in the game with each bidding to show their personality away from the pitch. For Weah, the new generation of ballers are making the most of what the previous generations weren’t fortunate enough to have at their disposal: the ‘Gram.
“Players are showing their drip and I think with social media, you now have the platform to express yourself in a way that people didn’t have before.”
Timothy Weah x Footballer Fits. Photography by Shane Bain.
“I think seeing the NBA and seeing how they really push their fashion, I feel like as footballers, we want to do the same. Rap and hip-hop culture and all those other things come into play too. Guys are listening to music and catching a vibe and I feel like footballers are just feeding off all of that,” Weah explains.
“Everyone wants to be a star, everyone wants to be an artist and everyone wants to be a fashion icon and I think in football, we’re beginning to see that. Now you see a lot of players like Marcus Thuram, crazy drip! You’re seeing Trevoh Chalobah, crazy drip! Those are my guys and I think together, we’re taking it to that next level for sure.”
For most ballers with interests outside of the game, the ‘focus on football’ rhetoric is regularly thrown their way with the older generation of football fans seemingly incapable of letting go of their traditional mindset regarding athletes. For Weah, players are using their interest in fashion off the pitch to boost their performances on it. “I feel like fashion plays a huge part in how you play on the field and how you act off it.”
“If you dress nice, you’re going to move with swagger and like you’re looking good. On the field, a lot of players like to cut their socks, wear wrist tape and add a little sauce to it. If you dress well, you play well and if you dress well, you feel good.”
In typical fashion, I ask whether Weah would like to see NBA-style pre-game fits implemented in football. “I feel like it’s something they need to add because I’m tired of wearing the thing as my teammates!” he says with laughter. “That’s another way fashion would level up in football, players coming to the game with photographers there ready to take pictures and then ‘boom!’, you’re on the front page of Vogue.”
I respond by asking him how hard he would go if given the opportunity to rock his own pieces before each game. “For game day, you’ve got to put on your best stuff,” he says enthusiastically. “You gotta be the best dressed, you definitely have to break the internet I think!”
Keen to find out his style preference when he’s not trying to break the internet, I ask Weah about his everyday style, something his fans aren’t always able to see. “It’s really lowkey. I’m really a guy that likes to wear black clothes. Whether it’s drippy clothes, it could be something from Rick Owens or Balenciaga, but it’s calm, it’s lowkey, it’s fitted and chill. I’m not really into flashy colours or flashy things, I just like to stay mellow and vibe out.”
As Weah switches between each outfit, his perfectly-curated playlist plays around the house from the speaker based in his kitchen with the latest track from Compton-born rapper YG bouncing from room to room. “This is going to be the album of the year,” he tells me, something I’d find hard to disagree with. Rarely a moment goes by without Weah breaking into song or moving to each beat, giving me an insight into another huge passion of his: music.
Timothy Weah wears New Balance 550 sneakers. Photography by Shane Bain.
“Music has been huge in my life. I’ve been listening to music since before I can walk,” Weah reveals. “My Dad is from Liberia and my Mum is Jamaican, so music is heavily rooted in our culture. Growing up with music, I listened to classical, jazz, r&b, hip-hop and reggaeton, all of that. Getting the flavours from each of those genres is huge on why I dress the way I dress. It adds the ability to manoeuvre through different styles and different textures.”
I take a further dive into Weah’s musical taste by quizzing him on his current rotation: “I’ve been really listening to afrobeats hard if I’m keeping it real.”
“I think two years ago I was bumping afrobeats on some regular stuff but now, I’ve been tapping into a lot of WizKid, Rema, Tems, Burna Boy and Victony so I’m heavy on the afrobeats right now. Travis Scott, Drake and those guys are definitely the legends I have on repeat in my playlist too.”
“One album I couldn’t live without? Oh man, that’s a good question! I think right now with the vibe that I’m in, of being in a mellow vibe and being chill, it would be WizKid ‘Made In Lagos’. It’s one of the best albums from start to finish. It’s just smooth, clean and elegant. I love it.”
From Weah’s energy when talking about music to the tracks playing around his house, I ask a question I should probably already know the answer to – who is in charge of the music in the dressing room?
“I’m always the dressing room DJ. They [other players] love it, man. Especially on the national team. When I go there, I’m DJ’ing the whole time. The locker room, the bus, anywhere. We have it on lock!”
Having never previously spoken to Weah before my arrival in Lille, I was unaware of what to expect from the U.S. international aside from the common knowledge of his ability in football and his range in fashion. After learning about his interest in music and specifically his taste for it, it’d be easy to label the youngster as a triple threat, mixing football, fashion and music into one. But after spending time with him, such a compliment would be doing him a disservice. Weah is more than a triple threat.
From his understanding of the different cultures he’s been indulged in to his referencing of artists Basquait and Warhol when describing his perspective of fashion, Weah is pioneering a new wave of ballers aiming to remove the stereotypes of athletes being one-dimensional and should ‘stick to what they’re good at’.
Timothy Weah wears New Balance x Aimé Leon Dore collab. Photography by Shane Bain.
With Gen-Z chasing authenticity from players more than ever, Weah is seemingly incapable of acting anything other than himself. Aware of the young people in society who may be struggling with a lack of identity amidst the pressures of social media and ever-changing demands to feel included, I bring our conversation to a close with one last question: ‘What would be your message to the youth of today?’.”
“To the young kids coming after me, just be you,” Weah says. “Do what you want and dress how you want. Listen to whatever music you want and do your thing because at the end of the day, people are going to judge you and you can’t watch that.”
“You have to block out the noise and do you. Be you. Be free. Live life. Live your life like a butterfly, you know what I mean? People always ask me what that means. Have you ever seen a butterfly do anything? Nah, it just vibes. So just vibe.”
In Partnership With: New Balance
Styled By: Timothy Weah Himself
Shot By: Shane Bain
‘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.