Touchline Style: The Quiet Side of football

Obviously, I watch football for the game. The goals. The drama. The late winners. But let’s be honest, there’s more to it than just what happens on the pitch.

It’s pressure from every direction. Screaming crowds. Media at the ready. Yet some of them stand there like the chaos doesn’t exist. Controlled. Still. Like they’re exactly where they’re meant to be.

Xabi Alonso, for one. Polos that sit right, trousers that actually fit, smart trainers that don’t need to shout. Effortless, like it’s not a look, just who he is.

Then there’s Mikel Arteta. Always black. Always neat. Hair perfect. He’s 2–0 down in the 85th, and he still looks like he’s in charge of the room. And that Rolex GMT-Master II? It doesn’t scream. But it punches. Clean and confident. Like the man himself.

It’s never about dressing up. It’s about showing you’re ready. A black knit polo. Proper trousers. Smart trainers. That’s it.

Because presence doesn’t beg for attention. It earns it.

And if you think it doesn’t matter? Wait until your mate’s wife tells you you look good. Then see how quick he changes his outfit next week..

If I redesigned a football kit, I’d cut the shine. Matte fabric. Tailored fit. Tonal stripes like suiting. Something with edge, not gloss. Even the socks would be better. You’d notice. You just wouldn’t know why.