UCL Nights: Leipzig

Photo by: Berat Özulusal

UCL nights transcend mere football; they are pure magic. In a world where the beautiful game sometimes falters, these enchanting evenings are our sanctuary. Our mission is to capture and celebrate the spellbinding allure of these nights, where every match is a captivating tale of triumph, resilience, and unbridled passion.

@berat

In a stunning Champions League clash that could make your heart skip a beat, Manchester City orchestrated a masterful 3-1 triumph over RB Leipzig.

@berat

Picture this: After two bitter setbacks in domestic competitions, including losses to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and Wolves in the Premier League, City embarked on a high-stakes journey to Germany. They were on the brink of a potentially disastrous third consecutive defeat in all competitions for the first time since April 2018. The anticipation was palpable as they faced off against the reigning European champions at the illustrious Red Bull Arena.

@berat

The drama unfolded rapidly as Lois Openda unleashed Leipzig's first on-target shot shortly after halftime in the 48th minute, momentarily canceling out Phil Foden's impressive first-half opener (25'). But in a display of unwavering resolve, it was business as usual for Pep Guardiola's side. Julian Alvarez, the dynamic substitute who entered the fray for Foden in the 79th minute, etched his name into the annals of football lore. With finesse and precision, Alvarez delivered a jaw-dropping strike that curled gracefully into the far corner, reestablishing City's lead in the 84th minute.

@berat

And that wasn't all – brace yourself for the grand finale. Earlier in the match, Foden had tantalized the spectators as he rattled the crossbar with an audacious inswinging free-kick. Erling Haaland had squandered a slew of opportunities despite City's dominance, leaving the crowd breathless in anticipation of a second goal. The tension reached its zenith until Alvarez, once again, stepped into the spotlight. With impeccable timing, he orchestrated a symphony of a counter-attack in stoppage time (90+2), expertly setting up his fellow substitute, Jeremy Doku, who calmly slotted home a clinically executed goal.

@berat

The final whistle marked not only a resounding victory but also a cinematic spectacle for football enthusiasts. The Red Bull Arena bore witness to a spectacle that left fans in awe. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, intensity, and jubilation.

@berat

With this victory, Manchester City ascended to the summit of Group G, tallying six points from two matches. Leipzig, though valiant, had to settle for second place, with a two-point cushion over Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys.

In the end, this match wasn't just about football; it was an immersive experience that captured the essence of the beautiful game—a thrilling narrative that unfolded under the floodlights, leaving fans and neutrals alike with lasting memories of a remarkable night at the Red Bull Arena.

thanks to Berat Özulusal for sending over the imagery.
Check him out at: @berat.arw

Unbreakable Bonds

Hey everyone, it's Julian Araujo, just your regular guy from Lompoc, USA. My journey's about more than just football—it's rooted in the sacrifices of my immigrant parents, shaping my Mexican heritage into something I hold close. Those lessons of hard work and responsibility are my foundation, driving me to never settle and always chase my dreams.

From Barcelona to my tattoos, my parents are my pillars of support. They made my success possible, teaching me life's true values while tattoos are my way of telling stories.

Embracing life fully, I took on Barcelona's challenge and experienced its unique football atmosphere. The RUA parade and playing in La Liga are indescribable moments, met with calm and an eagerness to seize them. My goal? To become a world-class right back, conquering titles like the Copa America and the World Cup. This drive comes from my parents and an unwavering winning mentality.

The full story it’s only available on our Printed Mag.

onetwo issue 1 - September 2023

In Focus: Jack

How did you first get into videography?

I used to film myself all the time with a GoPro doing diffrent type of sports like football, skiing, cliff jumping & so on. Then i put it together & made a small edit out of it.

What drew you to wanting to document football stories?

I played football my whole life so i simply just connected 2 passions.

Who was the first player you ever shot with?

My first proper video was for one of my childhood friends Stephan Seiler. At that time he played in the 4th division in Switzerland, now he s playing in the First League for FC Zurich.

Is there any particular player you haven’t worked with, that you’d love to work with?

Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo would be a dream come true. I‘ve been a fan of him since i was a kid. Besides that i want to work with Karim Benzema, simply because he was the first one to ever do it. He‘s the founder of lifestyle videos.

We see you travel all across the globe to shoot players and major brands, was this always what you wanted? Or did you see yourself working with a team/club as staff or staying freelance at any point?

I never had any expectations to be honest, i just went with the flow & things happen to be like that. Obviously i love to see the world, diffrent cultures & connecting with diffrent people all over the globe. But I never wanted to work for a club, i always wanted to build my own thing & pursue my own vision. For example last year i went to Accra, Ghana with Memphis Depay. Ghana is diffrent, it’s raw & pure, i loved it. The landscape, the people & atmosphere is unique.

You have worked with Adidas on a number of occasions, recently on a campaign with Rafael Leao, what is the experience like working with a global brand like Adi?

Its amazing, especially when the brand trusts your vision & gives you so much freedom. I‘m definitly looking forward to many more.

You have also worked with the likes of footballerfits, who are now killing the game in the lifestyle scene on digital. What are your thoughts on how fashion and football are coming together now?

I love to see it, I’ve been following footballerfits since around 2 years, they are at the top for a reason. Its crazy how big fashion & football is now, i still think its just the beginning but its going in the right direction.

Leo Messi’s arrival in the MLS needs no introduction and you were there first hand to capture his first few weeks in Miami. How was that experience?

Yea, it‘s been a crazy time! I was in Miami for 10 days, it was like a movie. The whole project was the most challenging i ever had, simply because it was not possible to plan anything. Obviously having access to one of the greatest footballer to ever touch the planet was not easy, thankfully i was on the side of Adidas & we got the max out of it. I will never forget those days.

Did you manage to speak to the goat at all, or do you have any anecdotes that you can share?

Yea we have been in a changing room for like 30mins as we planned some scenes with Leo. I didnt speak much with him as his spanish is hard to understand but he was super friendly & humble! One Anecdote maybe; He once had to sneeze & i said „bless you“, he smiled at me, winked & said „Thank you“, i never heard him before saying anything in english.

Outside of shooting footballers and releases, what do you do personally to keep yourself motivated on the creative side?

I dont really do anything special to motivate myself, i just want to get better & better project by project. Thats my motivation.

We see a lot of AI implementation being introduced into different creative spaces, such as photography, and podcast editing tools. How do you think AI will impact the videography and FilmDoc spaces? Are you fearful or hopeful?

I like to see it but its also scary at the same time. I think a lot of things can be taken over by AI, video clipping, podcast editing, photoshop tools, effects etc. But its never gonna be that good to do the job of a human. So i‘m hopeful but fearful at the same time.

Your influence on the football culture is important with your storytelling abilities. What advice would you have for any young film makers/ shooters out there still unsure of what they want to create?

I think the most important is to do what you love. Don‘t think about the money in the first place, go with your passion & the money will come.

La Vie Noir

Greetings everyone! I'm absolutely thrilled to share the incredible journey of my upcoming brand, La Vie Noir. Hailing from the charming village of Plescop in Brittany, where my football journey began, I'm deeply rooted in my humble beginnings even as I rise in the Championship.

My passion for football is unparalleled, but I've discovered another love: fashion. Guided by the influence of brilliant minds like Corey Lee Anton and Tithey Schulz, I ventured into the captivating world of fashion photography. Attending Paris Fashion Week and witnessing Rhude's remarkable show left an indelible mark on me, igniting the spark to create my own brand.

And so, La Vie Noir was born, a reflection of my style and passions. The name itself, translating to "The Black Life," encapsulates the beauty within the enigmatic aspects of existence. Drawing inspiration from brands like Trapstar and Corteiz, I approached fashion design as a painter does a canvas—blending simplicity with boldness to craft a unique balance.

My debut collection, "An Ode to the Night," is a tribute to nocturnal mystery, inspired by the works of French painters. This initial drop includes comfortable yet stylish pieces, a black hoodie, two tees, and sweatpants, all featuring a modern twist on classic motifs.

To get a taste of La Vie Noir's culture, I'm hosting a limited pop-up event for friends and family, with plans to gauge reactions before our official launch. I'm genuinely excited to create something that resonates with you all, and remember, the collection will be available at night, adding an element of intrigue. Stay connected on Instagram for updates and a chance to secure exclusive LVN gear.

Can't wait to share more of this exciting journey with all of you! Stay tuned and let's embrace the beauty of La Vie Noir together.

The full story it’s only available on our Printed Mag.

onetwo issue 1 - September 2023

Reunited: Mckenzie & Trusty

Auston Trusty and Mark McKenzie, both products of the Philadelphia Union Academy, share a journey from their early days of training and laughter to becoming mainstays in European clubs and reuniting in the U.S. Men's National Team. Trusty and McKenzie's paths, though distinct, converged in breaking barriers between MLS and Europe.

Trusty - photographed by @malcolmstewart

Trusty's transition to Arsenal and McKenzie's leadership at K.R.C Genk marked their entry into European football. Their bond remained strong, as McKenzie reminisced, "You think about those days when we were 14, 15, 16... fast forward almost a decade and we’re sharing the national team stage together. It's crazy knowing how much time and sacrifice, the ups and downs we've all been through, and to finally share the pitch together… is special."

Mckenzie - photographed by @malcolmstewart

As they reflect on their past, Trusty and McKenzie offer insights about presence, patience, and trusting the process, striving to fulfill their aspirations on both club and international fronts.

The full story it’s only available on our Printed Mag.

onetwo issue 1 - September 2023

From The Pitch To The Gallery

Diallo Simon-Ponte, an art curator with a background in football, bridges the two worlds through shared attributes of discipline and dedication. He relates his football training's relentless repetition to the meticulous work of art curation, and credits his footballing past for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. He identifies artistic talent similarly to assessing athletes – focusing on technical mastery, creativity, and originality.

@spyonspeezy

Diallo's journey from football to the art world has given him a unique perspective and approach, exemplified by his role at Gagosian gallery. However, he acknowledges the challenge faced by players like Serge Gnabry, who experience backlash for diversifying their interests, emphasizing that athletes should be free to explore their passions beyond their sport without undue scrutiny. In the ever-evolving space of art and football collaboration, Diallo highlights examples like Grace Wales Bonner and Kitboys, showcasing the exciting potential when these two realms intersect creatively.

The Full Story it’s only available on our Printed Mag.

onetwo issue 1 - September 2023

Event of the Summer: The Multi-Hyphenate Fashion Show

Hyphenate Creative Founder: Raheem Taylor-Parkes

Miami, the vibrant melting pot of diverse cultures, played host to a fashion show that matched its energy and significance. Onetwo was lucky enough to be part of the exclusive "Multi-Hyphenate" Fashion Show, organized by Hyphenate Creative Co. in support of mental health awareness initiatives. 

Zack Steffen: Manchester City & USMNT

The event was an ingenious blend of fashion and soccer, spotlighting the remarkable Mifland Leather Goods. Held in the heart of New York City, it drew esteemed guests, including US Men's National Team players Chris Richards, Auston Trusty, and Zack Steffen. The fusion of these dynamic industries and people created an atmosphere of excitement, innovation, and unity like never before. 

Mifland Leather Goods

From the get-go, the buzz around the show was electric. Fashion enthusiasts and soccer fans eagerly awaited the unveiling of Mifland's latest creations. Known for their functional designs, impeccable craftsmanship, and modern utilitarian approach, Mifland had everyone's attention. And when the show started, it was clear that Mifland was about to transcend expectations. 

DeAndre Hunter: Atlanta Hawks

The runway came alive with Mifland's flamboyant summer collection, each piece impeccably blending practicality with style. The audience was left in awe, as smoke filled the ambiance, and spotlights pierced through the darkness, elevating the presentation to a whole new level. 

Throughout the evening, the event exuded energy as the audience immersed themselves in the artistic fusion before their eyes. Athletes and fashion designers alike showcased the potential of cross-industry collaboration, bringing people from all walks of life together through their shared passion. 

The grand finale was truly awe-inspiring, shining the spotlight on two visionaries - Tobi Egberongbe, the mastermind behind Mifland Fashion Label, and Raheem Taylor-Parkes, the founder of Hyphenate Creative Co., both trailblazers in the fashion and sports worlds. Taylor-Parkes's speech struck a chord with the crowd, emphasizing the power of diversity and collaboration, not only in shaping the future of fashion and sports but also in raising awareness about mental health.

The impact of this event lingered long after the final applause. It showcased the remarkable harmony that can arise from seemingly different industries, creating an unparalleled experience that celebrated humanity. As the show drew to a close, it was evident that this innovative convergence of fashion and soccer had set the stage for a remarkable new era. 

Music To My Ears

At onetwo, the connection between football and music is celebrated through exceptional artists like Sainté. Hailing from Leicester, Sainté's music effortlessly transports listeners to his hometown, intertwining his creative force with cocky one-liners and personal reflections.

With a debut single in 2019, he's become a prominent figure in UK rap, drawing influence from his multicultural city known for its football club and radio history. We were BTS during a live show in Berlin's Kreuzberg, Sainté's enthralling sound and energetic crew, adorned in vintage football kits, captivated the audience. The fusion of music and football vibes was palpable as the pre-show camaraderie mirrored a warm-up, fueled by deep tracks and electrifying energy. The performer's charismatic stage presence and diverse fan base, representing streetwear, skate culture, and football enthusiasts, showcased his broad musical appeal.

The full story it’s only available on our printed MAG

onetwo issue 1 - September 2023

Generational: Meet the Etienne’s

@nomadic_lens _

onetwo’s Raheemovic sat down with Haiti international Derrick Etienne Jr. and his father Derrick Etienne Sr. to chat about their family lineage of professional footballers. Derrick Etienne Jr. currently plays Major League Soccer (MLS) for Atlanta United and has over 30 caps for the Haiti national football team. His father Derrick Etienne Sr. played in the United Soccer League (USL) for the Richmond Kickers. Etienne Sr. also had stints with the Long Island Rough Riders and Metrostars, retiring in 2006.

Etienne Sr. was first introduced to the game of football by his father, who played professionally in Haiti. He credits his love and passion for the game not only to his father, but to his older brothers and icons of the game who he grew up watching, such as Pele.

The Etienne’s football lineage spans across multiple generations. Derrick Etienne Jr., along with his siblings, who play football as well, grew up in an environment that was fueled by faith in their family and the abilities that they all posses on and off of the pitch. Etienne Sr., states:

“It’s amazing because we fulfilled my dad’s dream. My dad sacrificed his dream to come to the States and build a life for his family. It is an honor to have represented and played in high-level games, and then of course to pass it down to my kids is even greater.”

@javizeyes

Etienne Sr., the epitome of what it means to be a black father who provides for his family and the community around him, has always felt that it was his responsibility to provide, protect, and prepare Etienne Jr. for what the world of professional football has to offer. His love, guidance, and affection for Etienne Jr. and his siblings created an environment that they could all thrive in. The discipline that Etienne Jr. and his siblings developed as young kids would eventually propel them to solidify a future for the current Etienne generation, as well as the ones to follow.

“When he was maybe two or three, I just started throwing a ball at him [Etienne Jr.]. Once I saw his hand-eye and foot-eye coordination at two years old and he was able to volley the ball back to me, I said, this kid is special.”

Growing up in a family of footballers made the game easier for Etienne Jr.

“Going to practice with my dad [Derrick Etienne Sr.] and being around the professional environment was something I always enjoyed and never took for granted”, he states.

“This helped create a love for the game, because seeing it all firsthand is different than watching from afar. Being able to ask questions and receive information was huge for me. I enjoyed that a lot”, Etienne Jr. recalls.

Derrick Etienne Jr. admits that during the early stages of his football career, he modeled his game after his father, who played as a striker. As Etienne Jr. developed, he found himself playing on the wing and in the midfield setting up and making plays for those around him. Reflected in his current style of play, one filled with joy, Etienne Jr. believes that watching players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Henry, and Robinho contributed to becoming who he is as a player today.

“I have been lucky enough to have some really good vets who took me under their wings. Lloyd Sam, Sean Wright-Phllips, Bradley Wright-Phillips, Mike Grella, Danny Royer, and Darlington Nagbe. Legends of the game.”

@javizeyes

As a younger player, Derrick Etienne Jr. credits older players who saw something in him and have guided him throughout his professional career. Etienne Jr. has stayed true to himself and true to his game, which has allowed him to see action on the pitch for his club and country. “Even if you go through goal-scoring droughts or bad performances, you have to be able to take the hits and just keep going”.

The late great Pele once said, “You want to be the best? So does everybody else”. This quote has kept Etienne Jr. motivated to not only tell his dreams, but to also show them.

The game of football has given so much to the Etienne family on the pitch. Off of the pitch, Derrick Etienne Jr. and his amazing relatives have established the Etienne Family Foundation, which gives back to the Haitian community.

“Giving back is something that is close to my heart. It is something that I do with great pride. I am blessed enough to have had my grandfather come to the States and make a living for himself. I also have a father who was able to provide for my family. Now that I am able to provide, I feel like I was put on this earth to do so.”

@nomadic_lens _

Thank you to Derrick Etienne Jr. and Sr. for sitting down with onetwo to discuss their historic football lineage.

A New Pathway: UPSL to MLS

Courtesy: Chris Korte

The UPSL spring season came to a dramatic close as AS Frenzi (Lake Mary, FL) beat Sporting Wichita (Wichita, KS) in a highly-contested final where AS Frenzi came out on top 2-1 in extra time. With MLS clubs joining the UPSL leagues, the competition and opportunities for young players within the league will only be on an upwards trajectory.

Compared to Europe and South America, there are numerous ways that one can break in to the pro game in the United States. From MLS and USL academies, to college and open tryout successes, one cannot find a singular route to the pro game in America. With that being said, there are numerous talented players who fall through the cracks each year, unable to catch the attention of scouts and coaches that can take them to the next level.

Enter the UPSL

Since its inception in 2011, the league has grown to 400+ teams nationwide, providing the opportunity for both young and established players to compete at a high level. For AS Frenzi, a team comprised of high school boys from immigrant roots, the chance to compete for a national title against older competition is a critical part of the development of their players. Co-owner Wayne Dorman would elaborate on how important this match was for the club and the players.

#celebration

“This club came from a process where a lot of talented players were not getting the opportunity to showcase their true talent on a bigger stage. Once you leave club or high school, if you are not going to a D1 or going pro, seemingly there's no other place for opportunities. So, the UPSL provides a platform that can help these players get some notoriety.”

With talented young players such as 16 year old Yan Diomande, who was the Spring 2023 National Playoff Top Goal-Scorer, as well as Zion Coleman, Blair Dorman, and Charles Christian, there has been a host of MLS clubs on the trail of under these under the radar players. Several MLS clubs have also signed up their U18 squads to the UPSL in order to play against older, higher competition. DC United academy and Loudoun United scout, Mattar M’Boge, would elaborate on the benefits of UPSL.

“I am very impressed with the level, we're looking forward to the UPSL Fall season and making sure our players have a stage to develop on. The UPSL is giving our young guys more opportunities to play, more opportunities to develop. I think the transition now to a mens league (the UPSL). They're going to be pushed, they are going to be challenged and we are very much looking forward to that. For us, this league is a big opportunity for our players to grow and develop.”

#luck #pray

For the UPSL, the next step is to turn these talented young players into established pros at the highest level. Will we see UPSL players in the MLS soon?

"Yea I think so, I think you guys just keep doing the good work that you're already doing. It's not easy. The UPSL is setting a good standard here and every year, every season it's going to get better, as long as you keep doing the hard work more teams will see this league is an opportunity to grow and develop young players.”

With MLS clubs joining the league, there will be more eyes on the competition that they play against. It will not be long before we see MLS players playing against America’s best with established roots in the UPSL.

My Jam

It's Drew Spence here, midfielder for Spurs and the Jamaican National team. I'm going to be sharing  my thoughts on the remarkable developments in women's football, our expectations at the upcoming World Cup, the profound influence of Jamaican culture, and a few personal anecdotes from my journey. So, let's dive right in!

@_spence23

Women First

“In my opinion, this year has been nothing short of incredible for women's football. After witnessing the home nation's triumph at the Euros, it was evident that a wave of excitement would follow.

The Women's Super League (WSL) witnessed a significant surge in crowd attendance, indicating a growing support and appreciation for the sport. The games at Old Trafford and The Emirates were the pinnacle of the Season.

With each passing day, women's football is gaining the recognition it deserves, and I know that this year is just the beginning of an extraordinary era for the game”.

@_spence23

Mundial

"First, let’s address the elephant in the room: The Women’s World Cup is right around the corner. I hope you are all excited as much as I am. Playing for Spurs and a club in general is amazing but representing my country, my background and my family drives me even more.

The World Cup is a magical experience and I am so thrilled to live it in Australia and New Zealand. Oceania hosting a World Cup for the first time, me playing for Jamaica, everything is perfect.

But it’s not going to be a walk in the park. As part of the Jamaican National team, our primary objective is to make it out of the group stage at the World Cup. 

This is our goal  and we're all laser-focused on achieving it. Participating in my first World Cup is a tremendous honor for me and my family. 

Although I haven't been with the team for an extended period, I'm determined to share my experiences from playing with some of the world's best players at club level. The bond within the team is invaluable, and I can lean on my teammates, who have experienced the previous campaign, for guidance and advice.

Together, we aim to leave our mark on the global stage and make Jamaica proud".

@_spence23

Jamaica

"I can’t lie, being Jamaican gives me a sense of belonging. Its vibrant culture and extraordinary diversity makes this little island so important on a global scale. Really! 

Despite being a small country, Jamaican culture has made a significant impact worldwide. Its  music, distinctive fashion, and unrivaled sporting achievements have captured the hearts of people across the globe.

Brands like Adidas, Clarks, and Daily Paper have recognized the marketability of Jamaican culture, cementing its mainstream place.

It's a source of immense pride for me to witness how our culture continues to shape and inspire the world. I’m glad I am part of this wave but I need to play my role and look fly on the biggest stage. Luckily enough I have the drippiest kit of the world cup to wear during the games".

@_spence23

“I must say that Wales Bonner did an outstanding job with the design. The kit perfectly captures the essence of our nation and culture. 

The bold striped socks bring it to life and add a touch of flair. The home kit, in particular, is a slick ensemble that not only looks great on the pitch but also fits seamlessly into everyday fashion. 

Being part of the kit release shoot was nothing short of surreal for me. Not only is it my first World Cup, but the shoot also took place in Jamaica, adding to the sense of awe. 

We were shooting in tropical conditions, and the temperature soared to around 35°C. Despite the  heat, we rocked sweaters and jackets for that authentic Jamaican vibe.

 It was an experience I'll treasure forever. It reminded me of the passion and dedication we bring to the game, no matter the circumstances”.

@_spence23

‘Jerk in the Park’

“It was fun talking to you guys and if you are in London and want a spot to catch the game in a real authentic Jamaican style then head out to ‘Jerk in the Park’ in Waterloo. 

It's my local food spot, offering the real experience of incredible Jamaican cuisine. The energy and flavors take me right back to the streets of Jamaica… 

They’ll be showing the games at BoxPark and other spots around Shoreditch, Cmon Reggae Girlz!”

In Focus: Nazli Öztürk

Ever wanted to decorate your house with a rug that stands out and catches everyone’s eye?

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Rugs’ Lover

Say you’re a huge Zidane fan, wouldn’t you want a customised rug of him, and take your living room to the next level while you watch football games?

Well, we got you covered. Indeed, few days ago we had the pleasure of (virtually) sitting down with the mind and hands that create such art pieces.

Nazli, aka @nzlozzturk, is a creative mind that used her passion for football to start crafting something pretty unique.

Nazli’s rugs have indeed gone around the world lately, thanks to their uniqueness and beauty, so we wanted to know more about her story while discussing her passion for the beautiful game.

@nzlozzturk

Back to Basics

Hi Nazli, first of all thanks a lot for taking the time and speaking to onetwo. I’d say let’s start from the basics and give us a brief introduction about yourself, what do you think?

Thanks to you guys, it’s a pleasure talking to onetwo and I really appreciate your interest in my work!
My name is Nazli, I am 36 years old and I live in Istanbul. Originally I was a sportscaster, and nowadays I focus mainly on two things: filming sports documentaries and weaving rugs.

Great! Now an easy but not so easy question to keep warming up. What is your first memory when you think about football?

Not an easy question at all haha! I’ll have to go back quite a bit on this one.
So I’ve been interested in football since I was very young.

A huge Galatasaray fan, I went to the stadium for the first time when I was 10 years old. At that time, Gheorghe Hagi had just joined Galatasaray.

My very first match at the stadium coincided with his Galatasaray debut, and I could not have asked for anything better.

The moment I stepped inside and saw that magical green grass for the first time, I was enchanted.
It was quite a moment for a little kid like me.

The whole stadium was shouting Hagi’s name in unison, and I was very impressed with this enthusiastic love of so many people for just one person. Even after all these years, I still remember that feeling on my skin as if it was yesterday.

@nzlozzturk

Origins

Wow, it does sound magical and we can only imagine the atmosphere inside the stadium!

Now, here at onetwo we like to talk about those stories that connect football to different facets of mainstream sports and culture, so it’s time to talk about you story. How did you start creating these art pieces and which was the first one?

I started weaving my first carpet two years ago. As with many passions, it actually started as a hobby when I found myself bored at home during the pandemic era.

The more I got into it, the more I liked it. I spent hours researching on the internet and watching videos to develop my skills and get better at it. For example, since this is not a professional occupation in Turkey, I had my products brought from the United States as a result of long research.

I created many different designs at first, trying to understand how the process worked and how I could improve. But the first carpet I weaved in the shape of an the athlete was very special, and represented a very special player indeed: it was a Roberto Baggio carpet.

@nzlozzturk

This is so cool Nazli, we could tell there was a lot of love and dedication behind this amazing pieces you create, and now we know it for sure. And that Roberto Baggio carpet, let us tell you it’s a real gem!

Let’s talk a bit about the creative process behind your work: how is the process when you think about how to create a rug? Which tools and materials do you use? How long does it take?

I usually produce carpets based on the orders that come in. For example, if the customer has a specific request, I first try to understand if that design is applicable to the carpet.

If it is not, I use the help of a friend of mine who is an illustrator, and together we make the image suitable for weaving.
As I weave the carpets of iconic athletes, I strive for the outcome to be close to perfect, which means the pressure on me is high!

When it comes to tools and material, I use a 2.5 kg tool to weave the carpet that is called a tufting gun. Also, since the wool determines the quality of the work very much, I carefully select the wool I use and make sure it’s 100% acrylic.

Coming to the production process, this may vary depending on the size and details of the design. There are steps such as weaving the carpet, glueing the back, shaving and so on, so it is a tiring and demanding job that requires patience and precision.

The key is not to have any hurry.
Indeed, usually a carpet can take at least 10 days to be created. For large ones, the duration can go up to three weeks!

The Favourites

That’s really interesting, and we can definitely see the long hours work you put in each of your art pieces. You’ve done quite some customisations as of today, do you have one that you’re most proud of?

Thank you! Actually, there is no specific rug that I am most proud of. The production journey is different for each one, and the way they make me feel is very special.

I am very excited about the idea that a product I made with my own hands will accompany other people's lives. Every time I simply try to do better than the previous one, and I try to be proud of myself.

And you should Nazli, really, because these rugs are simply unique. Is there any specific rug you’re planning on creating next?

As I said at the beginning, I am a Galatasaray fan. We have superstar players in our team this season, like Dries Mertens and Mauro Icardi.

It's a pleasure to watch them playing for my beloved club. Napoli won the league after many years and I know how special Napoli is for Mertens and the emotional connection he has to the city and the club. That's why I weaved him a rug from his time at Napoli, specifically for the title.

And I want to weave a special rug for Icardi too, in this case in memory of Galatasaray's title, since he has already become one of the icon players for us.

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‘El Diez’

Just beautiful! And honestly we’re now curious now to see these rugs. With results like these, did any player, club or brand reach out to you to realise a specific project or request?

Yes! For example, Necati Ateş, one of the unforgettable Galatasaray strikers, is a big Maradona fan. The first Maradona rug I weaved was for him.

After sharing the work on my social media account, I received great attention from Argentina and Napoli fans. Likewise, the Messi carpet I weaved during the World Cup was very popular and demanded.

Apart from this, I had a collaboration with Adidas, as well as different brands and names that I come in contact with. There are good premises to collaborate and do cool projects together in the future.

If we can say, those Maradona and Messi rugs are indeed two beauties, no wonder they were highly requested!
And if we dare you to dream, what would be your biggest desire connected to your passion?

It is already very pleasing for me knowing that the products I make reach people in some way. I don't like to block myself. This is not my mindset because sky is the limit.

But if I had to dream, if one day I’ll have to make a carpet for Rafael Nadal and Michael Jordan, yeah, I think that will be the day I can die of happiness!

We keep all our fingers crossed for that to happen, it would be insane and you definitely deserve it. One last question before we let you go, what exciting projects do you have coming up?

I would like to reach the global level on this job. If I stay in touch with the clubs and brands in the way I wish, I will keep on weaving carpets for many clubs and athletes.

We thank Nazli for her time, we genuinely loved talking to her and getting to know her incredible talent.

We can’t wait to see what’s coming her way, as we’re sure it’s gonna be huge (Rafa Nadal and Michael Jordan, you’ve been warned)!

Check her wonderful work and make sure to follow her journey here: @nzlozzturk

From Field to Canvas: Erëleta Memeti

Away from the roaring crowds and floodlights, painting is my solace, my personal retreat. Let's dive into my world of football and art.

@ere.memeti

My Canvas

Hi, I'm Ereleta. You may know me as TSG Hoffenheim's midfielder and the captain of the Kosovan National team. But when I'm not navigating the football pitch, I'm exploring a canvas.

Ever since I was a kid, I've had two loves in my life: football and painting. Both are different in their own ways. In football, it's all about quick moves, teamwork, and precision.

Painting, on the other hand, is all about letting your creativity run wild, turning a blank canvas into a beautiful piece of art.

@ere.memeti

When I was just a little girl, I used to paint pictures that my parents hung up on the walls of our home. Even when school and football took up most of my time, I never lost that creative spark.

Yes, football is a huge part of my life. But my creativity is always there, adding color to everything I do.

Social Me

Even when I'm posting on social media or creating digital posters for Match Day, I try to make it unique and artistic. I love painting and designing. It's like an escape for me, a way to leave the everyday stress behind.

When I'm painting, I get lost in my own world. It's just me, my thoughts, and endless possibilities.

It helps me understand my feelings better. Sure, talking to people is good, but painting gives me a special kind of peace.

@ere.memeti

In the last seven years, football has led me to move six times. With each move, I realized that owning lots of things only made it more stressful. That's when I decided to keep things simple. Instead of buying more stuff, I started filling my rooms with my own artwork.

@ere.memeti

Like a Rainbow

Big, colorful paintings replaced the furniture and other things I used to have. This change made my rooms feel spacious but still full of life. That's how I've been decorating my homes ever since.

I've even painted for my friends, who now display my artwork in their homes. My parents also have some of my large paintings at home. They've put one up in their living room because it's a perfect fit.

@ere.memeti

So, you see, football and painting are like two sides of the same coin for me. One keeps me active and excited, the other helps me relax and express myself. They're both important parts of who I am, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

@ere.memeti

FC Barça is back

Football Club Barcelona set the city ablaze as the Catalan giants sweep Spain yet again.

@zlaff.jpg

‘Los Culés’

Back to back thrashings hand delivered by both the Men’s and Women’s teams to seal the league titles with games still to play.

One side of Catalunya living in ecstasy while the other half – Espanyol – dealing with the five stages of grief after being delivered a tough blow knocking them deeper into their relegation battle by their rivals.

Although the Espanyol fans may have cut the FCB celebrations short on their home field, a quick metro ride to Plaça Catalunya would show no sign of stopping the energy of the Blaugranas raging rampantly through the streets.

@zlaff.jpg

La Rambla

However, leading up to the match the streets had a peculiar vibe. It was hard to tell it was even a FC Barcelona game day as the men’s squad geared up to play their rivals RCD Espanyol on Sunday, May 14th.

I thought to myself “Is football culture dead in Barcelona? How could that be possible?”

La Rambla, one of the most famous streets in Barcelona should be packed on a game day where the potential is to clinch the league title for the first time in four seasons, yet it was soulless.

There were only four kits in sight as I walked the street, completely empty bars, no chants to be heard or flags to see waving through the air, and the pub we went to didn’t even bother to put the game on their biggest screen.

We couldn’t believe it, but the game kicked off, and the energy of the city creeped out with each goal bagged by Barcelona.

In classic form, Lewandowski opened the scoring for FCB and the coolest Jules Kounde closed the tab at 4-0 putting Barcelona out of reach of Espanyol despite their late efforts to bring the game back.

With each goal, the cheers and chants became louder and more passionate.

The final whistle blew, and the Culers rejoiced as they were crowned champions of Spain for the first time since Messi’s departure from the club.

We stepped out of the pub, and the once empty and bland La Rambla began bleeding Blaugrana. Eager ultras who weren’t at the game had already set the scene for the fans to come.

@zlaff.jpg

Vibe

A euphoric sight. Footy culture here is not dead.

The night was unlike anything I have ever experienced before.

Hundreds of fans rushed to the street as the celebrations were just getting started. The ultras climbed light poles and street signs to raise the ‘Champions’ flag to the sky and lead the Catalan choir in chants.

Every fan popping out in their best Barcelona gear. One hundred-year anniversary jerseys, Guardiola, Maradona, and Koeman kits, scarves reading ‘El millor Barça de la historía’ (The best Barça in history), and flags strung through the air and tied around fans' backs assembled a sea of blue and red sent waves around the city.

Hundreds turned to thousands as the street turned into a warzone . A scene that sent a chill down your spine.

Smoke bombs infusing the area blue and red, fireworks shattering the night sky, flares sending sparks into the crowd, and the Culer army screaming “Barça! Barça! Barça!” at the top of their lungs.

The chants rang through the souls of everyone in the crowd and joined us as one. Sparks flew through the street and burnt my Barça kit leaving a battle scar and a memory that will last a lifetime. A hole that will forever remind me of the beautiful chaos that ensued on Sunday, May 14th.

The night fell to morning with no sign of the army slowing down, and what else would you expect than for a rondo to break out in the midst of the chaos? Scoops, flicks, and pannas accompained by the crowds’ “ole” put a smile on everyone’s face who got a touch.

Oh, and the streets haven’t forgotten their beloved Messi. Fans chanting “Meeessi. Meeeessi. Meeeessi.” as his name rang through the night and into the next day.

‘Antimadridistas’

The team parade, begun at 6pm leaving the Camp Nou as we awaited the buses’ arrival at the historical arches of Arc de Triomf. Arriving early you could sense the passionate scenes that were to ensure. Fans of all different ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds coming together over the shared love for the Catalan giants.

Thomas Chuaqui who is a study abroad student this semester had this to say about the chance to experience this moment:

"As an American soccer fan, the culture around soccer in Europe was always something I envied. Seeing the festivities when Barcelona won the league were exactly what I was hoping for when coming to a country with amazing football culture. Seeing the city come together and celebrate like that was amazing and I’m so grateful I was able to be a part of it".

The streets filled with ‘Antimadridistas’ that lead the entire group through chants and spread the Blaugrana love. Squatting down low, silencing the street, to explode like a cork out a champagne bottle chanting “Boti, Boti, Boti! Madridista qui no boti eh, eh!” (Jump, jump, jump! Madridista, whoever doesn’t jump, eh, eh!).

@zlaff.jpg

Neverending Story

From one generation to the next the love must be passed on.

Strong leaders created core memories for the young culers. One ‘Antimadridista’ saw a young boy eager to get in the mix, but a bit too shy to leave his mother. He went over to him and spoke with him for a moment before getting him out to the middle of the street to start the “Blaugrana al vent.

Un crit valent. Tenim un nom el sap tothom: Barça, Barça, Baaarça!” (Blue and claret blowing in the wind. One valiant cry. We’ve got a name that everyone knows: Barça, Barça, Baaarça!) chant.

From shy to the center of attention the boy was freed by Blaugrana. Locked in as a fan for life through moments like these as his hands left his sides and waved through the sky with his face permanently stuck with the biggest smile.

The street filled and filled as fans resorted to climbing the street signs and stoplights to find the best view of the parade.

Leading chants as they looked out upon a sea of Culers. Waves of dancing and jumping fans crashed and spread love through the street for hours as each fan held the one next to them.

The hours passed until the Blaugrana sea was parted by the police as Xavi led the busses through their final destination.

@zlaff.jpg

Stiched Together

We were smashed against each other trampling everyone around as the Men’s and Women’s teams passed through returning the love to their city that hasn’t stopped celebrating them.

The peak of the night as the busses rolled through and every fan had not a care in the world but sending the team every bit of loving and joyous energy that was brought to them by each team this season.

Everyone so proud to see the women bring the title home for the fourth season in a row, and the men win their first title in four seasons to sweep the rest of Spain and be crowned King and Queen.

‘Los Campeones. Campeones. Campeones. Visca Barça’.

A Tale of Two Nations

Alejandro Zendejas has dominated international headlines of North America. 

@malshot1t

Starboy

He was the subject of the latest dual-national recruitment battle between CONCACAF giants, the United States and Mexico. The Mexican-American had played within the youth teams of both countries including representing the US  in the U-17 World Cup on a team that included Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams.

The time had come to make his final decision on who he wanted to represent but the path to this point is just as important to highlight. Let’s rewind to 2016 when Zendejas was 18 years old and he earned his transfer abroad to Liga MX team, C.D. Guadalajara a.k.a Chivas – a team that only employs Mexican players.

"You have to choose either the U.S, National Team or us.

I had to resign to the USA for a while. That's what I told the US U-20 coach handling the national team at the time. I was 18 so I didn't know what was right for me. I don't know what to do, because what if I do go to the national team? What clubs am I gonna go to? I had just signed for this team".

@malshot1t

The Choice

"It was the right move at the time because through it, Zendejas matured as a player and started to make his initial waves in the region.

Honestly, that helped me out a lot. Like, they sent me out on loan for a year and I balled out, I played almost everything.

This earned him a move to Necaxa, which was followed by a move to arguably the most predominant team in the region – Club América. It’s here where Zendejas would go from a prospect to a regional star.

Club América is crazy. If you're doing good, everyone's name gets out there and you start making noise. Then with this whole two nationality drama, my name really got there".

This is what happens when you play at the mythical Estadio Azteca, where the likes of legendary figures such as Maradona and Pele further etched their mark on history. 

A technical, tricker winger himself, Zendejas, electrifies the América crowd with dazzling dribbles and a magical left foot. With the support of new head coach Fernando Ortiz, it took Zendejas’s game to the next level.

"We got this new coach and the new coach gave me that confidence. At the end of the day, that’s what every soccer player needs, you know, that confidence to really show what you got".

@malshot1t

Looking Forward

“Like for us forwards who do one versus ones, and we don’t beat our player, it gets into our head. So you need a coach that will tell you it's alright, focus on the next one. He doesn't care if you lose it once or twice as long as you try and you give 100%.

"With the attention Zendejas was garnering from his play at América, the United States wanted to bring their former youth player back in the fold after six years.

It was tough because obviously being away for six years, it's not an easy choice. My parents are Mexican, my whole family's Mexican. I have that Mexican heritage. I love it but I just grew up in the States, you know? 

With Zendejas living in Mexico for a few years now, he takes us through a day in the life of living in Mexico City.

My favorite breakfast spot is a place in Mexico City called Madres Café in Polanco, that is where the best avocado toast and coffee is. For traditional Mexican food, my favorite place is Cardinal. You can get mole, huevos rancheros, tortas, chilaquile, everything that is a staple in the culture”.

With food being such a passion of his, will being a chef or owning a restaurant be in his future?

"No, no I don’t want to be a chef. However, I would definitely like to be a dietitian or someone that can tell people what is the best food for their bodies for performance. Food and fitness are both things I have a passion for.

After a six-year hiatus, Zendejas had a chance to test the waters of the U.S. National Team in a mostly region-focused camp back in January which he attended after an invitation from the U.S. 

Shortly after this camp, Zendejas made his choice. Being back in this January camp, I felt so comfortable, like I felt like I never left.

@malshot1t

‘Familla’

“I could talk with anyone about their experiences in Europe or they're open to talk about anything, you know? That's like one of the reasons I chose the US, I feel like that wouldn't happen in Mexico.

My family. They're super proud of me. And they're happy and I'm happy to have their support system. They're always behind me 100%. They're always supporting everything I do. 

Without them I wouldn't be where I am today.

Man, it's unreal. I didn't think I was gonna see these guys ever again. Maybe Club team or something but national team? I thought it was going to be a while, it's been six years.

To just play an official game with these guys, it's like you're in the big leagues now. It's exciting but I’m just taking it all in because it all goes by so fast… so just just enjoy every moment”.

In Focus: Mats Drawing

Matthias, aka Mats Drawing, is an emerging artist who connected his passion for art to the one for sports and football in particular.

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Paintings

Have you ever seen such custom jerseys while scrolling through Instagram or TikTok? 

Whether you have or not, keep reading, because a few days ago we had the pleasure of (virtually) sitting down with the mind and hand behind these pieces of art.

Mats’ magic craft has been on the rise in the last couple of years, through insane art pieces and unique collaborations, so we wanted to know more about his story while discussing these passions.

@mats.drawing

Let’s Get Started

Hey Mats, first of all thanks a lot for taking the time and speaking to onetwo. Why don’t we start from the basics and introduce yourself?

My pleasure guys, I really appreciate your interest in my work! My name is Matthias, I am 25 years old and I live in France, to be precise in the city of Rennes. In my everyday life I am an illustrator artist.

Wonderful! Let’s keep warming up then. What is your first memory when you think about football?

Tough questions, but if I have to choose one I think my first memorable memory was Chelsea-Monaco in the 2004 Champions League.

Oftentimes I used to go to a bar with my father to watch the Champions League matches, and that's exactly where my crush for Chelsea was born. I was 7-8 years old at that time and Chelsea was a team filled with class players (Terry, Lampard, Gudjohnsen, Crespo). It was love at first sight.

We can definitely second-that, it was a great team! Now, here at onetwo we like to talk about those stories that connect football to different facets of mainstream sports and culture, so let’s talk about your story. How did you start creating these pieces of art and which was the first one?

I started customizing about five years ago, and the first things I worked on were jeans jackets. Then, as I practised, I told myself “you know what? I could actually paint on any item, surface or material”, and the idea of painting on football shirts came to me. 

From there I did several different tests, but the first "official" jersey couldn’t be anything else than a Chelsea one (of 2012), on which I painted one of the best strikers in the history of football: Didier Drogba.

@mats.drawing

Artistic Subject

As the saying goes “You never forget your first crush” right? That Drogba jersey is a beauty indeed. 

Let’s talk a bit about the creative process behind your work: what happens exactly when you think about how to custom a jersey? And do the characteristics of the player influence your thought process?

The process I developed for jersey painting is composed of several stages. Let me walk you through it:

1. Look (sometimes even for long hours) for all the photos that I find interesting to reproduce. Once I have a good bunch, I sort them out.

2. Then, I make several photo-montages until I find the right composition, the right background, the right colours, and so on. This will be the drawing I’ll paint.

3. Now the painting begins. I start by creating a white paint background on the shirt that serves as the base (like a canva), and while I wait for it to dry, I take a piece of paper and draw the player's sketch.

4. Once the paint has dried out, I transfer the sketch onto the jersey using a tracing sheet. Then I start the first shading and lights with paint until I get to the final result.

When it comes to the players I’m portraying, yes, their characteristics and personality can influence the painting.

For example, if I’m painting a striker, like I recently did with Haaland, I will look more for images of him celebrating, because those are moments filled with emotions and so the context and expressions are more interesting.

That’s really interesting, and we can definitely see the long hours of research and work you put in each of your art piece. You’ve done many customisations as of today, do you actually have one which you’re most proud of?

To be honest I don't have a favourite jersey in particular, but I must say I'm really really proud of the last big project I did with Messi and Maradona's shirt for the World Cup.

@mats.drawing

You’re an Artist

Wow, this is jaw-dropping. It should be exposed in a museum in Buenos Aires! With results like these, did any player or club reach out to you to realise a specific project or request?

Thank you! And yes, in these years I was able to work with several players such as Koulibaly, Loic Remy, St-Maximin, as well as various clubs of the likes of AS Monaco, Feyenoord, Rennes and also FC Barcelona.

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Anecdote

That’s crazy! You got some real satisfaction there, congratulations. And was working on these projects different than usual? Tell us about a crazy story you experienced connected to one of them!

Ok ok, I have one. So, I mentioned Koulibaly asked me to create something for him. About a year ago, I went to Naples to give the two jerseys I customised to him. He was supposed to invite me to a Napoli game while I was there, which he did. Really nice of him no? 

Well, on top of that, he booked me a private driver for the whole duration of my stay, and then he invited me to eat with him at the restaurant after the match. It was pretty crazy to share a moment like that with such a huge player!

No way, this is indeed crazy. I’m jealous! Before we let you go, what exciting projects do you have coming up? 

I have ideas for future projects, especially now that the end of the season is approaching and there’s also the Champions League. But I can’t and won't say too much haha, soon you’ll see!

@mats.drawing

We thank Mats for his time and we can’t wait to see what’s coming his way. We genuinely loved talking to him and getting to know his incredible talent and how he connected his passions for art and football.

Check his insane work and make sure to follow his journey here: @mats.drawing

Outside the Box: Dayne St. Clair

Dayne St. Clair – a once relatively unknown name is now on the lips of all Major League Soccer and Canadian National Team pundits and fans.

@morganmarkgraf.sports

MLS is Something Else

The 25-year-old goalkeeper had a breakout 2022 season securing the starting job at Minnesota United, being named an MLS All-Star, and earning the MLS All-Star Game MVP in front of his home fans at Allianz Field.

After being drafted by Minnesota in 2019 and being sent on a loan a few times, Dayne has found a settled in Minnesota on and off the pitch.

"I’m entering my fifth season now with Minnesota United. I've spent a couple small stints in other places like Madison and San Antonio, but I'm really looking forward to this year because I feel like in the past, I was building relationships and things like that. 

I feel like this year I will be able to see those relationships blossom.

An avenue that has fueled some of that comradery has been games – a favorite pastime of St. Clair and some teammates.

@davidberdbag

Get in the Game

"I think anyone that knows me knows how much I enjoy playing games. Whether it's FIFA, Uno, cards, Dominoes, board games, you name it. And it's a game. I'm willing to play it and to learn it. I just love to compete.

To pick my favorite one is definitely tough. I'd probably either have to say a game called Catan or Partners. They're both just kind of strategic games that allow you to think. 

And then of course there's a little bit of luck involved, whether it's the dice or the cards that you're dealt. So, I think those two are definitely my top tier, but I do also have to say that Euchre up there as well. That's been our playing card game for this year that we've been playing a lot. 

Of course anytime with the National Team, we're always playing dominoes. A lot of us have Caribbean backgrounds, so there were alot of barbecues, family functions, things like that. 

It seemed like there was always a Domino's table around. So we always kind of picked it up.It's just something that allows us to relax off the field, but allows us to still have that competitive edge and that banter with each other as well".

@davidberdbag

Food Dishes

Speaking of the Caribbean, Dayne’s roots there stem from his Trinadadian father. Dayne’s Caribbean side reveals itself in his cooking which is infused with Caribbean flavors inspired by his dad.

“My love for food is definitely something that I kind of grew up with as a child. My dad was a really good cook, used to love watching the Food Network, and still do... I just think it's a way that you can learn easily and it's the competition in shows that I really enjoy. 

It’s the small tips and tricks of the trade that you can pick up from the professionals and apply it on a daily basis. I wouldn't say I have a specialty dish because I kind of just like the challenge of trying new things. 

Growing up in a Caribbean household with my dad doing the cooking I think I definitely gathered some of those Caribbean traditions and Caribbean flavors and spices that I like to add to my food. Now funny enough,  if I didn't play soccer, I did say I wanted to be a chef and/or just be involved in the restaurant business”.

The competitiveness in games and cooking that Dayne is drawn to makes it unsurprising that he ended up being a professional athlete. It’s the fierceness in which he competes that thrusted him to the position he’s in today. 

As for this season, MLS hasn’t even reached Week 10 yet and that means a clean slate of opportunity for Dayne.

@morganmarkgraf.sports

Ambition

“The new season starting always presents new opportunities and new challenges. Personally, I want to build off the season I had last year.

When you start the year fresh, everyone wants to win silverware and I think with new competitions this year as well such as Leagues Cup, it allows teams another shot to win something. 

I think that goes without saying the reason why we play is to win, get the results, and excite the fans. 

It’s definitely going to be a very busy summer with Leagues Cup, Gold Cup and Nations League but I think in terms of the summer and national team, of course looking to continue to represent my country, as it is always a great honor and one that I don't take lightly. 

We have two big tournaments this summer that we're gonna be involved in. Our goal is to go and to win silverware, and to show that we are one of the top teams in our region.

For me, I want to improve my consistency. Of course I had a great start to the season last year but I want to make sure this year that I'm in the conversation for goalkeeper of the year and being one of the top keepers in the league because I know I have that potential. 

It's about showing that week in and week out”.

In Focus: Jordan Dawson

As time has passed, footballers have found more and more ways to express themselves on  and off the pitch. Haircuts, goal celebrations, and outfits are some ways they’ve done this but in more recent times boot customization has become yet another avenue of expression.

@jordan.dawson

Here I am

Jordan Dawson is a trailblazer in this space becoming known as one of the go-to artists for custom boots. He’s made boots for the likes of English international Marcus Rashford, Tottenham Hotspur Son Heung-min, and even Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt.

Even before working with the biggest football stars, Jordan was collaborating with some of the biggest brands.

"I started off working with customization of footwear.  I worked with the likes of Nike, Adidas and Puma. I then got invited to the FIFA 20 launch where I was customizing Adidas Superstars for  Kaka, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Rhian Brewster, Callum Robinson, etc".

@jordan.dawson

"BBC Sport were at the event and they asked the question whether I customize football boots, I hadn’t started that venture but took the opportunity whilst at that event  for myself to speak to footballers".

It was through this that Jordan found his first footballer client, Declan Rice. It snowballed from there to the point where he regularly customizes more than just one pair of boots for players.

"It depends on the design. I have one off designs where it could be for a cup final, or it might be to remember events. But then you've got the likes of Darwin Nuñez who's got his Uruguayan flag on it but now he wants a second pair done. It kind of just depends on the client".

@jordan.dawson

Custom

As for the process of customizing the boots themselves, he makes it look easy but it’s because Jordan has diligently honed and mastered his craft for years.

Normally it takes around two to three days depending on the design. But of course, it actually takes seven years of me practicing the art, and the three days work on top. But again, it depends on the complexity of the design.

Jordan has worked on countless projects but the ones he is most proud of?

“I'd say there's a couple pieces. I think one is working with Chelsea Football Club, which was customizing a pair of Air Max’s for Air Max Day. I'm a Chelsea supporter, so being invited to Stamford Bridge was pretty special.

I also got invited to St. George's Park to customize 33 pairs of Air Force 1s for the England squad. Seeing the players wear that pre-match in the World Cup, I mean, you're talking on the biggest stage, so I absolutely enjoyed that the most”.

@jordan.dawson

Not Football Only 

"I also work with multiple other sports. I've worked with boxers like Anthony Joshua and delved into other sporting fields like cricket and athletics with  Usain Bolt and Moeen Ali. I don't just stick to the football space, although football is 90% of my life. I love other sports as well".

@jordan.dawson

As for who his dream clients would be, it would be difficult not to be starstruck by them.

"My dream would be to customize a pair for Lionel Messi, whether it be for him finishing his career or Cristiano Ronaldo, something to commemorate their whole careers. That would be a dream".

@jordan.dawson

Big Goals

So what’s next for someone like Jordan who’s already accomplished so much within a relatively short amount of time in this career?

@jordan.dawson

"My plan for the future is just to carry on the journey that I'm on. I didn't expect it to propel in the way that it has. I never thought I'd make a career out of this either. But I think in 10 or 15 years, maybe before then, but I’d love to create my own shoe.

There's endless possibilities of where I may end up. I'm just going to continue on this journey and we'll take it step by step".

Perspective: Timo Baumgartl

We ended up in a Leica store where I bought my first camera and started taking pictures and trying out different techniques.

@timo_baumgartl

Let Me Introduce

"Hi, my name is Timo Baumgartl and I'm a player for Union Berlin. But when I'm not on the field, one of my biggest passions is photography. It all started a couple of years ago when I met Felix Stein, who introduced me to this art form.".

@timo_baumgartl

Captivating

"I chose the Leica because it's an easy camera to work with for someone like me who wasn't initially great at photography. With practice, I've been able to improve my skills and take better photos. I take my camera with me everywhere I go, whether it's on a walk or when I'm on holiday, and I try to take pictures of everything that catches my eye.

On an average day, I take around 100 pictures, but only a few of them end up being great shots. 

I keep trying and experimenting, and that's what I love about photography - the endless possibilities and opportunities to create something unique and beautiful".

@timo_baumgartl

The Ambient

“As someone who's passionate about photography, I find the best time to capture stunning shots in Berlin is during the summer, without a doubt. 

But the autumn months can also be great, especially when the light is good, and in the morning, the morning light is simply amazing. I also love taking photos during the moments just before the sun goes down – the light is magical.

Unfortunately, there's only a short time slot of around 3 to 4 months when the light is perfect in Berlin, and the rest of the year is a bit grey with less optimal lighting conditions.

However, I try to make the most of the good weather and spend as much time outside as possible, always keeping my camera close by in hopes of capturing some truly special moments”.

@timo_baumgartl

POV

“As a football player, I don't really have a routine outside of training, but I always make sure to check out the sky after practice. If the weather is good, I'll head out with my camera and snap some shots. Sometimes I even venture out in bad weather because I take photos wherever and whenever I want.

If my teammates and I are out for a walk by the river or something, I'll often bring my camera along too.

But I don't really have a set process or flow for my photography. When I edit my photos, I usually use Lightroom and just sit at home. I like to have a good movie playing in the background while I work, as it helps me get in the right headspace”.

@timo_baumgartl

“I don't use presets when editing my photos, preferring to tweak each one individually until it looks just right. In the beginning, I had some trouble with the coloring, as my girlfriend always looked too orange in my shots. But I learned from my mistakes and kept improving”.

@timo_baumgartl

The Choice

“It's hard to pick just one favorite photo, but I think the first one I ever took with my camera holds a special place in my heart. It wasn't the best in terms of angles or editing, but it was the first step on my photography journey. I love telling the story of how I got started and sharing my passion with friends.

@timo_baumgartl

"While some people have suggested that I should turn my hobby into a business and start taking photos professionally, I prefer to keep it as a personal hobby. 

I enjoy capturing moments wherever I am, whether it's on the football field or at a party, and I'm happy to be the guy who always has his camera ready to go”.

Rodrigo Vilca Adaptation

Meet Rodrigo Vilca, talented football player who made the life-changing decision to move from his hometown in Peru to the United Kingdom in pursuit of his dreams.

@rodrigovilca10_

In this candid interview, Rodrigo shares his inspiring journey and sheds light on the challenges he faced along the way. Join us as we delve deeper into his story and discover the resilience and determination that propelled him to success.

Hey Rodrigo, thanks for your time, we wanted to chat to you about your experiences in England thus far and the transition you’ve had from South America to the North East.

When you started your career in Peru, how was your experience with Deportivo Municipal?

“When I started my career at Deportivo Municipal, there were four years filled with a mixture of happy and sad moments.  I fought against relegation with the club, I had injuries, but overall I learned a lot about football”.

@rodrigovilca10_

The Neighbourhood

You moved to England when you were very young, what was that experience like?

Moving to England at a very young age was a great opportunity for me! Thank God I had my mother and brother living with me, that helped me a lot to be able to face the proposition of missing your family outside your country and being homesick. In football terms, I have felt very good since arriving. It has been two years of ups and downs.

You now live in Newcastle, how have you been finding life in the Toon?

Yes, I love Newcastle, I like the city, the people are very kind, the weather could be better, but I'm used to it haha, it's part of life.

@rodrigovilca10_

Toon Army

Newcastle United are a club on the up at the moment, are you enjoying playing in that environment?

Yes, the club has changed a lot in every way, I'm very happy it’s turned out like that! A club like this having so much history, it's always important that the club moves forward.

You have played on loan a few times, how was your experience at Doncaster in League One?

Yes, it took me some time to adapt whilst I was at Doncaster as the coach played me as a right midfielder and it wasn't my usual position! But then I knew how to adapt to the team and I was able to score two goals and contribute with assists.

@rodrigovilca10_

We know that you have opened a Barbers in Spain, what was the reason for that?

The motivation was with my brother as we wanted to have a family business, my brother is a barber, he is the one who always took care of my different hairstyles haha, I suggested the idea and then we started it and set it all up.

We wanted to do something that defined us, something different and we did just that. It has been well received by the customers and the people of the town. The barbershop without my brother would be nothing.

@rodrigovilca10_

Homesickness

What is the difference for you between fan culture in South America and England

The feeling in South America is different, we live differently. You’d be amazed if you saw how people really live over there. It is something you can’t explain!

Here in England it's different, it's very different. But I have to say that the Newcastle fans are in love with their club and the support is incredible. They are also very respectful, that says a lot about them.

@rodrigovilca10_

Who is the best player you have played with?

I can’t tell you one, there have been so many! Really, in my opinion they are all very good.