Ball. Spring 2026

DENIS SUÁREZ

SPRING26

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THE ATHLETE’S TRUSTED VOICE

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SPECIAL THANKS

THE ATHLETE’S TRUSTED VOICE

Denis Suárez, Josu Izarra, Gleison Bremer, One Plus Nine Images, La Martina, FiveFourFive, Savior Sport, Esmee Brugts, Mikey Fagan, Brittany Gilman, Kellyn Acosta, Stevie Connor, Ruda Marshall Reed, Stoney, Kelsey Brosi, Matias Fondato, Paris Maghoma, Marcus Pancho, Festus Abo, Josh Snaps, Tyrone Sibanda, Majeed Ashimeru, Akra Hotels, APEX Football Performance, API Global, Approved Finance, BAND Advisory Group, Benghazi International Stadium, We Advertise, Chaperone K9, Currencies 4 You, DAMAC, E-Champ Tech, Go Group Holdings, Hacienda Na Xamena, Ikos Resorts, LAYRD Design, London Golf Club, Manors Golf, Meals, Partners&, Rixos Resorts, Sani Resort, Seven Capital, Sun Siyam Resorts, SpaFlo, Strutt & Parker, Tees Valley Innovation, Team Fusion, The Luxury Wellness Group, Tilehouse Studio, Volpe, Wimbledon Wealth & Yachtsman.

DENIS SUÁREZ SPRING26

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| INVESTMENT HEALTH & WELL-BEING

A LETTER FROM THE TEAM Spring’26: the statement edition: Spring always carries a sense of renewal, but this issue feels less like a fresh start and more like a statement. This is Ball Spring’26: an edition built on movement, identity, and the quiet force of players and projects reshaping the game from every angle.

At the centre of it all is our cover star, Denis Suárez, a player whose journey defies the typical arc of modern stardom. His story is one of persistence, intelligence, and evolution; a reminder that longevity in this game is never accidental; is crafted. This cover is not just about where he is now, but everything he has navigated to remain relevant in a sport obsessed with “what comes next.”

What comes next is exactly what this issue explores.

We step into the worlds of Majeed Ashimeru and Paris Maghoma, two players operating in different spaces yet united by a shared momentum. Ashimeru brings a composed, technical sharpness shaped by experience across Europe, while Maghoma represents the raw, rising energy of a new generation pushing through with intent. From there, we turn to Kellyn Acosta, whose voice carries far beyond the pitch. His feature sits at the intersection of sport, culture, and responsibility, a look at what it means to lead, speak out, and still perform at the highest level in an increasingly complex landscape. This issue does not just focus on players; it expands into the systems and spaces shaping the future of the game.

APEX emerges as a forward-thinking force, challenging how performance and innovation intersect. It is a glimpse into football’s next frontier, where marginal gains meet mindset. Then there is Benghazi New Stadium, a project of immense architectural significance and a symbol of a city reconnecting with the global game. For some, it is just a stadium. For others, it is a symbol of return, pride, and possibility.

Creativity finds its place through Matías Fondato, whose work bridges football with visual storytelling, while Gleison Bremer, defensively dominant and quietly elite strips things back to the focus and discipline required to operate where mistakes are unforgiving. Finally, we look to the future already arriving in Esmee Brugts. Fearless and unapologetically modern, she embodies the evolution of the women’s game and its accelerating global impact. What ties all of this together is range. Different leagues. Different journeys. Different voices. But all part of the same conversation. This edition is not about one narrative; it is about many existing side-by-side.

Ball has always been about more than football. It is about the people within it, the culture around it, and the ideas pushing it forward.

Spring 26 captures that fully.

Take your time with it.

With gratitude,

Teamball.

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PAGE 70

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GLEISON BREMER FAITH. FAMILY. DISCIPLINE.

Gleison Bremer grew up in Itapitanga, a small town in Brazil, where helping your family was not a choice but a responsibility. Before Juventus. Before the Brazilian national team. There were early mornings and real obligations. Selling ice cream. Carrying heavy goods at local markets. Working to support his family and paying for his own trips to away matches.

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Today, his world includes tailor made elegance, elite competition, and representing Brazil at the highest level.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: ONE PLUS NINE IMAGES

BRAND: LA MARTINA

AGENCY: SAVOIR SPORT

“God first, because without Him nothing would be possible.”

For Bremer, success is not measured in headlines. It is measured in balance.

In faith. In giving his family a better life. In staying grounded while improving year after year.

How would you describe your personal style off the pitch?

“Most of the time it is elegant, but I like staying comfortable too.”

Who or what has influenced your fashion choices the most?

“Italy influenced me a lot. I played with some players who dressed very elegantly and I wanted to dress that way too. I love Italian style and the way Italians dress.”

Do you have a go to piece that makes you feel confident?

“I prefer elegant clothing, but I also like a more casual style.”

Which designers do you admire?

“My style is more elegant, with a strong preference for tailor made pieces. I admire Giorgio Armani’s style.”

If you were not a footballer, would fashion still be part of your life?

“Yes, I think so, because fashion is a form of expression regardless of your profession.”

What does a typical day off look like?

“I like spending time with my daughter and my wife. If possible we go for a small trip. I like building memories with them and spending my time with my girls.”

What are three things you cannot live without?

“God first, because without Him nothing would be possible. Family and football as well.”

Do you prefer a calm day or something more busy?

“Without a doubt a calm day. I am a person with an old school mindset.

Wake up early, read, have a good breakfast, drive my daughter to school, go to training, recover and then spend the day with my family.”

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“I always had an uncommon desire and determination, and God saw my efforts and rewarded me.

What keeps you grounded?

“Writing down my thoughts. It helps a lot. That is what helped me most during my recovery last year. Writing clears your mind.”

What was life like growing up in Brazil?

“I grew up in Itapitanga, a small town in Brazil. I worked to help support my family financially, and with that money I also paid for my trips to away matches. I sold ice cream and helped at local markets, carrying heavy items people bought.

In this way I was able to contribute financially.”

“I did not have everything during my childhood, but the time I spent on my father’s farm was very special, surrounded by animals and the love of my family.”

Did you always believe you would become a professional footballer?

“I always had an uncommon desire and determination, and God saw my efforts and rewarded me. Becoming a professional footballer was always my goal and I dedicate myself every single minute with this focus and mindset.”

How do you take care of your mental health?

“Having balance is important.

Knowing and respecting your own identity.”

Do you have practices that help you stay balanced?

“I pray and meditate a lot. I am a person who believes in God, so staying connected to Him is very important.”

BRAND: LA MARTINA AND FIVEFOURFIVE

What childhood memory still motivates you?

PHOTOGRAPHER: ONE PLUS NINE IMAGES

“One of my biggest inspirations is Kobe Bryant. I always liked basketball and his mindset was truly inspirational.”

AGENCY: SAVOIR SPORT

Who inspired you as a child?

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BREMER

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“Always give your best and stay positive.”

PHOTOGRAPHER: ONE PLUS NINE IMAGES

How important is rest and recovery?

“Very important. We need those moments to disconnect and recharge, especially with family and doing what we love. I also learned to play the guitar recently, which relaxes me and motivates me to keep learning new things.”

What has been the proudest moment of your football journey?

BRAND: LA MARTINA AND FIVEFOURFIVE

sacrifices. It is normal for people to think our lives are easy, but every profession has its sacrifices.”

How has your game evolved since joining Juventus?

“I have been improving year after year, both physically and mentally.”

A moment that felt surreal?

“Giving my family a better life and seeing the smile on their faces.”

“When I joined the Brazilian national team. It was something I had dreamed about for a long time.”

The toughest opponent you have faced?

Most beautiful city you have played in?

“Messi.”

“I have played in many stadiums and cities, but Paris is one of the most beautiful cities I have played in.”

What do people misunderstand about being a professional footballer?

AGENCY: SAVOIR SPORT

difficult time, battling cancer, and that he felt inspired by my determination to come back from injury. That was very meaningful, because sometimes we inspire people who are facing extremely difficult moments.”

What drives you every day?

“Ambition and dedication. The desire to give your best and reach the goals you set.”

How do you handle setbacks or criticism?

“It is part of the game and completely normal when you play for a big club like Juventus. I keep doing my best either way.”

One piece of advice that changed your mindset?

A fan message that stayed with you?

“We show very little of the behind the scenes work, the training and

“A fan told me he was going through a

“Always give your best and stay positive.”

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What would you tell your younger self?

“Stay strong on your path and you will reach your goals.”

What would you tell kids growing up in Brazil or anywhere in the world?

“Everything is possible, no matter where you come from.”

What music do you listen to before a match?

“A bit of everything. Reggaeton and pop.”

An artist who lifts your mood?

“It depends on the moment, but Romeo Santos is someone I really like.”

Do you have a pre match playlist?

“Yes, especially a bit of bachata.”

What music reminds you of home?

“Forro and Sertanejo.”

If you could trade lives with a musician for a day?

“I would not change anything. I have a life that I truly enjoy.”

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Bremer’s journey is defined by consistency rather than spectacle.

Faith before fame. Discipline before comfort. Family before everything.

He speaks about ambition and dedication as daily responsibilities.

About writing his thoughts during recovery. About year after year improvement. About inspiring someone fighting cancer.

About staying connected to God. When asked what he would tell the next generation, his answer carries the weight of experience rather than theory.

“Everything is possible, no matter where you come from.”

From Itapitanga to Juventus.

From supporting his family to representing Brazil.

The path was earned.

PHOTOGRAPHER: ONE PLUS NINE IMAGES

BRAND: LA MARTINA AND FIVEFOURFIVE

AGENCY: SAVOIR SPORT

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Calm. Creative. Flair.

Esmee Brugts does not need to raise her voice to command attention.

Her presence is quiet, composed, and deeply self assured. Long before professional contracts and Champions League nights, she was simply a competitive child racing to the gate before a sentence had even finished. That instinct never left her. It sharpened.

At nine years old, a letter from the KNVB changed everything. She did not even know playing for the national federation was possible. She just knew it felt special. Years later, she finds herself living in Barcelona, representing one of the biggest clubs in the world, carrying both calm and ambition in equal measure.

“I want to reach my potential and I still have a long way to go,” she says.

It is not a statement of doubt. It is a statement of hunger.

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IMAGES: GETTY, NIKE, UEFA, BARCELONA AND DUTCH NATIONAL TEAM

“It is a privilege to feel pressure and it makes the game beautiful.” country, so I am living in a place that many people go on vacation to. I feel really lucky to live and play here.”

What did stepping into professional football feel like?

What was Esmee like growing up?

“I was really really competitive. It did not even have to be football related. If someone said who gets to the gate first, I would already be sprinting before they finished the sentence.”

When did football start to feel bigger than just a game?

“For me it was the moment I received my first letter from the KNVB under 12 team. I was only nine. I did not know it was possible to play for the national federation. Of course I thought it was really cool to be invited.”

“It all happened when Covid was there.

I did not really mind because I am a calm person. Maybe it was perfect for me to get used to the professional way of playing. I did not have expectations because I came from playing with boys and youth national teams. I could not measure myself with PSV Vrouwen beforehand, so the idea in my head was to take it all in and see where I was at.”

How would you describe your playing style?

“Calm. Creative. Flair.”

What part of your game are you working on most?

“Defending.”

How was the transition to Barcelona?

“It took some time to adapt. It was my first time in a different country with a different culture. But after some years I feel at home thanks to the players and staff. The way we train and live football is what I like the most and what makes me feel good here. Also Barcelona is known as a holiday destination in my

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“Create a circle with not many but good people around you and only listen to them.”

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BRUGTS What is the biggest lesson football has taught you?

“To create a circle with not many but good people around you and only listen to them.”

Women’s football is growing rapidly.

How does it feel to be part of this era?

“It is very cool to see and I am very grateful to be playing in the state we are at now. I have had the luck to share the pitch with girls who came from when women’s football was just starting and it was a completely different world. Knowing that I can contribute to more growth makes me strive for more.”

What does matchday look like for you?

“If we play at home I like to go into the city and have lunch. I always eat the same thing, a rice bowl, so that I have left the house instead of waiting for the game all day. Then I take a shower and head to the game.”

Any rituals?

“I step with my right foot first and that is it.”

What goes through your mind before a tough opponent?

“I feel ready when I look at my teammates. For me they are the best players in the world. I trust them that we will do the best we can.”

How do you handle pressure?

“It is a privilege to feel pressure and it makes the game beautiful. We know it is part of it and in the end we do it together.”

What does a perfect day off look like?

opportunity to create something that blends jewellery and clothing into one cohesive vision.”

What is the soundtrack of your life right now?

“La Villa.”

What do you listen to before games?

“I like to have friends over since I am living alone and at times it gets lonely.

Or I hang out with my teammates, go for a coffee or lunch.”

How do you unwind?

“With the national team we listen to more upbeat music before going out which I like. I like to go out with a kick.

Rave Rinse Repeat by Paul Elstak. At Barca it is mainly reggaeton which I always enjoy.”

Stay at home and do siesta.

What keeps you grounded?

“I think I am a quiet humble person so I will always be grounded. Being surrounded by my people keeps me like that too.”

How would you describe your style?

“I like original things. For example my rings that function as clocks.”

Where do you get fashion inspiration?

“Nowadays many people dress nice but I get inspiration from social media like everyone.”

If you could collaborate with any brand?

“Two Jeys. I really like their bold aesthetic and I would love the 41

“I want to reach my potential and I still have a long way to go.”

Favourite guilty pleasure?

“Candy.”

What do you enjoy most outside football?

“Being with my people. At home or going into the city.”

Something people do not know about you?

“I have to think about this one.”

What fuels your ambition?

“I want to reach my potential and I still have a long way to go.”

What has been your biggest challenge?

“The loneliness in a foreign country.”

Has there been a moment you hoped for more?

“With the national team I hoped to do better but it did not come. Now we have a fresh start and so far everything feels good.”

How do you see your best version as a player?

“Free. More creative. Shooting more.

Assisting more.”

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Calm.

What would make this season truly special?

“Personally if we could manage to win four out of four this season. Because this season we suffer more with financial fair play it would mean so much more.”

What legacy do you want to leave?

“That it is normal for girls to play football and being able to do it as a job. Since I am half Surinamese I would like to be an inspiration for all the Black girls who might suffer backlog in society.”

Esmee Brugts does not chase noise.

She chases growth. She speaks about freedom on the pitch, about creativity, about becoming more decisive. She speaks about loneliness with honesty and about pressure as a privilege.

When asked what she wants to leave behind, her answer is simple but powerful. “That it is normal for girls to play football and being able to do it as a job.”

In a sport still evolving, that kind of normal is revolutionary.

Calm. Creative. And still only getting started.

Creative.

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The roar of engines at the Monaco Grand Prix. The quiet tension of Centre Court at Wimbledon. The electricity of a once-in-a-generation concert, a championship final, or a sold-out gala. These are experiences few witness and even fewer feel in full.

Go Privilege curates unparalleled access to the world’s most coveted occasions. Every detail is considered: the surge of race-day adrenaline, the elegance of exceptional dining, the privacy and comfort of a luxury suite. VIP-only spaces, premier seating, and exclusive terraces are crafted entirely around individual preference.

Every journey is guided by a dedicated account manager, anticipating every need and orchestrating seamless transfers, fast-track entry, and subtle behind-the-scenes privileges. Nearly 20,000 extraordinary experiences delivered have earned a reputation defined by discretion, trust, and flawless execution. Every event unfolds effortlessly. Every moment feels deliberate. Every guest remembered.

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TRAVEL, REDEFINED. CRAFTED EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU.

EVERY JOURNEY. BEYOND EXPECTATIONS. True luxury travel is defined not by the destination, but by the exclusivity of the experience.

Go Privilege designs journeys entirely around the individual, blending bespoke itineraries with exceptional access. From chasing the Northern Lights in Norway to staying in a secluded overwater villa in the Maldives or discovering Kyoto with expert local guides, every detail is carefully curated.

Flights and accommodation are protected under ABTA and ATOL, ensuring complete peace of mind.

Seamless logistics elevate each journey, with private jets, helicopters, VIP transfers, and premium flights making travel effortless. Handpicked villas, exclusive experiences, and insider privileges ensure every trip feels personal and extraordinary.

Whether celebrating a milestone, planning a romantic escape, or organising a corporate retreat, Go Privilege ensures every journey is refined, seamless, and unforgettable. Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to reflect each client’s individual style, interests, and expectations.

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SANI CLUB Located at the far end of the resort, surrounded by lush nature and nestled in ancient olive groves. Wildlife lovers will be in the prime position to explore the riches of the environment. Take peaceful walks through the surrounding forest and admire the impressive array of birds . The panoramic views of the Aegean Sea make the secluded Sani Club your private escape between sea and sky.

EMBRACING TRANQUILITY: THE RENOVATED SANI CLUB

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Step into a world where nature’s grandeur meets ultimate seclusion at the transformed Sani Club.

Immerse yourself in newly renovated rooms harmonize with nature’s beauty, and enjoy a scenic, walkable promenade connecting to the rest of Sani Resort, accessible by club cars for ultimate relaxation.

From ancient olive groves to endless Aegean views - your perfect escape starts here. Book with Ball Travel and discover Sani Club for yourself. info@ball.travel 0203 051 7417 47

YOUR ISLAND HOME AWAITS In a world that moves too fast, we often forget to pause, to breathe, to walk barefoot on the earth. We chase paradise in faraway places, but what if paradise was a way of living, not a destination? DAMAC Islands 2 was created from this belief: that true luxury is about reconnection - with nature, with self, and with community. This master plan community offers the ideal blend of sustainable architecture and lush green landscapes. It’s not just a community; it’s a living ecosystem where nature and innovation converge, bringing the island state of mind closer than ever before.

CLOSE TO EVERYTHING, FAR FROM ORDINARY

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KELLYN ACOSTA WHERE I AM NOW A conversation on growth, identity, discipline, and evolving with intention.

Right now, how would you describe this chapter of your life, on and off the pitch?

“This feels like a new era for me. I am experiencing something I have always wanted, stepping into a different environment and embracing new challenges. Living in a new culture pushes you to grow in ways you do not expect. Lately, my mindset has simply been to adapt and move forward.”

What is something people misunderstand about you when they only see you as a footballer?

“I think people sometimes only see one layer. My background is diverse and that shapes how I see the world.

Beyond football, I am deeply family oriented and value the different roles I hold in my personal life. I am passionate about fashion and creativity, and I care about giving back. There is more to me than what happens on the pitch.”

When do you feel most like yourself?

“On the pitch, when everything else fades away. And off it, when I am with the people closest to me. Those moments ground me.”

PHOTOGRAPHER: STEVIE CONNOR

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STYLIST: RUDA MARSHALL REED

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PHOTOGRAPHER: STEVIE CONNOR

STYLIST: RUDA MARSHALL REED

“THERE IS MORE TO ME THAN WHAT HAPPENS ON THE PITCH.”

E A R LY J O U R N E Y AND IDENTITY Growing up, what shaped your mentality the most?

“It was a combination of family, environment, and football. Each played a role in shaping my mindset and work ethic. The people around me and the situations I experienced helped build the mentality I carry today.”

Was there a moment early in your career when you realised this could really be your life?

“Joining a professional academy environment was a turning point. It introduced structure, accountability, and a higher standard. Being in that setting daily made it real. It showed me what would be required and gave me belief that I could compete at that level.”

How has your relationship with the game changed over time?

“When you are younger, you just play because you love it. As you grow, you begin to understand the responsibility and impact that comes with it. You realise you are representing more than yourself. That perspective changes your reason and your purpose.”

PHOTOGRAPHER: STONEY

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G A M E A N D M E N TA L I T Y

“GROWTH COMES FROM LEARNING QUICKLY AND REFOCUSING.”

You have played in different systems and roles. How do you adapt mentally when your responsibilities change?

“It starts with understanding what is expected of you. Once that is clear, you focus on executing your role while still bringing your own qualities into the game.”

What separates players who last at the top from those who do not?

“Being coachable. Understanding that talent alone is not enough. The habits, the preparation, and the unseen work build consistency over time.”

How do you reset after a difficult performance?

“I reflect honestly, take the lesson, and then move on. There is no benefit in dwelling. Growth comes from learning quickly and refocusing.”

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C U LT U R E , S T Y L E AND LIFE OFF THE P I TC H What does a perfect day off look like for you?

“A slow morning with coffee and breakfast. Time to unwind. I enjoy simple things, walking around, clearing my head, being present. Then relaxing and recharging.”

What kind of music is usually playing lately?

“It depends on the mood. My playlists are diverse. I let it shuffle and see what fits the moment.”

How would you describe your personal style away from football?

“Versatile. I switch things depending on how I feel, comfortable, tailored, elevated, relaxed. Style reflects mood and confidence for me.”

Are there interests outside the game that might surprise people?

“I enjoy creative spaces and simple routines that help me reset. I value time to myself as much as time with others.”

STYLIST: KELSEY BROSI

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Who keeps the dressing room energy up the most?

“Every team has personalities who bring energy and keep things light.

Those characters are important. They balance the intensity of the job.”

What is something fans do not see about the daily life of a professional footballer?

“There is a lot that happens behind the scenes. Preparation, recovery, constant evaluation, and responsibility beyond the pitch. It is a lifestyle built on discipline and routine. People often see the result, but not the daily commitment that leads up to it.”

What is the biggest lesson football has taught you about life?

PERSPECTIVE

GROWTH &

STYLIST: KELSEY BROSI

“That consistency and commitment build over time. If you stay dedicated, opportunities come.”

When you look back at yourself five years ago, what has changed the most?

“My perspective. I handle challenges differently now, with more patience and clarity.”

What motivates you now compared to earlier in your career?

“Earlier it was about proving myself and improving. Now it is about purpose. Family plays a major role in that, along with the drive that has always been there.”

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LEGACY AND LOOKING F O R WA R D

What do you want people to remember about the way you played the game?

“That I played with intensity, commitment, and heart.”

When football is over one day, what kind of life do you imagine for yourself?

“A balanced one. Continuing to grow, giving back where I can, and staying connected to what matters most.”

QUICK FIRE Morning or night person?

“Morning.”

One city you love spending time in?

“London.”

A song you never skip?

“It depends on the day.”

Best advice you have ever received?

“Control what you can control.”

Three words teammates would use to describe you?

“Stylish. Warrior. Selfless.”

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PHOTOGRAPHER: STEVIE CONNOR

STYLIST: RUDA MARSHALL REED

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PHOTOGRAPHER: STEVIE CONNOR

STYLIST: RUDA MARSHALL REED

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Advisors, accountants and business managers in entertainment, media and sport.

Specialist Accountants for Entertainers & Athletes.

Today’s high-earning entertainers and athletes face a world of tax complexity.

Here’s how we offer essential advice and support at BAND to save you money and secure financial stability in careers that can often peak early.

1. Track Your Income Streams Entertainers and Athletes earn income from multiple sources including performance fees, sponsorships, endorsements, royalties and appearance fees. The BAND team will monitor and report your income streams, ensuring compliance with all regulations regarding timing and classification.

2. Avoid Double Taxation If you work abroad, you’ll be subject to foreign tax laws. Let us help you avoid double taxation by providing you with the relevant tax forms and the correct application of double taxation treaties.

3. Non-Domiciled Status and Tax Residency Irrespective of your immigration status, your tax affairs are determined by your domicile and residence status. You may have to pay UK tax on your foreign income. In addition, the UK will tax part of your worldwide endorsement income based on your UK performances. Change is coming in this area, so let us guide you through what this means for you.

4. Image Rights and Intellectual Property If you earn money from such sources, it’s essential to manage how these earnings are taxed, particularly if they come through personal service or image rights companies. Speak with our experienced team at BAND on how to structure deals and contracts to optimise tax efficiency. We’ll also help you navigate HMRC scrutiny.

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5. Employment Status and IR35 Deciding whether you’re an employee or self-employed alters how taxes are calculated, especially with the UK’s IR35 legislation for people working through personal service companies.

6. Work-Related Expenses Entertainers and Athletes may incur substantial expenses for equipment, travel, management fees, wardrobe or training costs.

We’ll ensure that all the correct expenses are claimed to reduce your tax bills. Agent fees can often lead to additional tax liabilities for athletes.

7. Charitable Contributions and Foundations There are tax implications when establishing charitable foundations or making benevolent donations, especially when dealing with gift aid or international contributions. Let us structure your charitable donations and ongoing compliance while you focus on improving lives. Perhaps you’d like to explore creating a Foundation to help those you feel deserve support or assistance in life and we can advise you on how to go about this.

8. Inheritance Tax and Estate Planning High-earning athletes and entertainers often accumulate substantial wealth, making inheritance tax (IHT) planning crucial.

The BAND team will advise you on tax-efficient estate plans, including trusts, lifetime gifts, and other IHT-saving mechanisms, to reduce the inheritance tax due and allow your family to benefit the most from your hard work.

Professional entertainers and athletes face unique and complex tax considerations in the UK. It’s crucial to work with an accountant and tax advisor who understands the challenges of your sector. Our experienced team at BAND can simplify the process and help maximise financial success and stability throughout your career and beyond.

The Art of Business

Central Cee & Bukayo Saka, by Dave Benett/Getty Images for Burberry

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W: weareband.co.uk E: hello@weareband.co.uk T: 020 81385560

M A N O R S G O L F. C O M 66

CO R P O R AT E G O L F E V E N TS AT LO N D O N G O L F C L U B London Golf Club prides itself as being one of the best venues to host a golf event. Met with a friendly welcome and complimentary bag drop, guest experience is paramount with every detail meticulously planned, ensuring a memorable experience from start to finish.

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www.spaflo.co.uk +44 (0)151 424 9742 69

DENIS SUÁREZ IN HIS OWN LIGHT

We often measure a footballer’s career by the distance between their debut and their retirement.

But for Denis Suárez, the most significant distance is the one between the player he was and the man he has become. At 32, the pressure to prove himself to the world has been replaced by a much quieter, deeper ambition. He hasn’t left the game, but he has finally found a life that is larger than it.

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PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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FATHERHOOD. FAMILY. PURPOSE. Because while football gave him everything, it is no longer the only thing that defines him.

Playing for clubs like FC Barcelona and Arsenal FC forced him to grow up quickly. Not just as a player, but as a person learning to exist under a level of attention few ever experience.

“You live every day knowing there are so many people behind you, supporting you, and with that comes a level of pressure that gives you a huge responsibility at a very young age.”

At that level, football becomes something more than performance.

It becomes identity. Or at least, the version of identity the world chooses to see.

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“Everyone knows you for the player you are, not always for the person you are. It’s incredible what you can provoke in people when they see you or recognise you, and that’s something you have to learn how to handle.”

There is a quiet awareness in the way he reflects on those years now. Not regret, but perspective. The kind that only comes with time.

“My younger self would recognise the person I am today. Maybe the person I am now would have helped me have a longer career at those types of clubs.”

Long before the stadiums and spotlight, there was a different kind of transition. One that would shape everything that followed.

PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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LEAVING HOME AT 16.

“The most defining transition in my career was leaving home at 16 to join Manchester City FC. It was a huge change. I went from going to school with my lifelong friends to living in another country and playing with players I used to watch on TV every weekend.”

It is a shift that many players experience, but few fully process in the moment. Growing up, not gradually, but all at once. And yet, for Suárez, the essence of football has never changed.

“My relationship with football hasn’t changed. I still enjoy every training session and every match. Football is my passion, and I also love watching it. What motivates me now is the day to day... I want to make the most of

whatever I have left in my career.”

But the real shift has happened away from the pitch. Becoming a father has reframed everything.

“My priority now is my son and my family. Coming home after a bad training session or a difficult game feels completely different now. Just seeing my son makes my day better.”

There is a simplicity to it, but also a depth. Football no longer carries the same emotional weight when there is something greater waiting at home.

“It makes me want to give my best every day so that he can have a great future... And one day, when he asks about his father as a person and as a footballer, I want him to feel proud.”

“And one day, when he asks about his father as a person and as a footballer, I want him to feel proud.”

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DENIS PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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LEGACY BEYOND FOOTBALL

PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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PHOTOGRAPHER JOSU IZARRA

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“I want my son to know that I was a good person and a great teammate.

Earning the respect of your teammates is more important than any title.”

That sense of responsibility extends beyond his own home. Through his foundation, Suárez is building something that reaches back to where it all started: Galicia.

“My foundation is very important to me. I want children in my hometown and across Galicia to have opportunities, whether that’s becoming athletes or simply having a stable and dignified future.”

There is no detachment from where he comes from. If anything, success has deepened that connection.

Impact, for him, is personal.

“For me, helping a child move forward in life means more than any sporting achievement. Hopefully one day, people will remember me more for what I gave back than for what I did in football.”

Life now moves at a different rhythm.

A perfect day is no longer defined by fixtures or results, but by presence.

“A perfect day now is spending time

SUÁREZ

FOR SUÁREZ, LEGACY IS NOT MEASURED IN TROPHIES.

with my son and my wife, watching him grow. Every day is a new experience.”

He admits it is still difficult to completely switch off as the love for the game is too deep for that but he has found a new appreciation for the margins of life.

“What I enjoy most now are the simple things I didn’t value as much before, like sitting on a terrace in the sun with my wife and my son.”

In the end, his definition of success has stripped away the noise of the stadiums. It has become something intimate.

“For me, success is being able to visit clubs I’ve played for and feel that people are happy to see me again.

That means I left a good impression because of who I was as a person.”

For Suárez, that endurance isn’t found in silver trophies or stadium echoes, but in the quiet strength of a life well-lived.

He is building a legacy that cannot be auctioned or traded, it’s measured in the pride of a son, the health of a community, and the timeless dignity of being a good man.

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Why Elite Footballers Trust Chaperone K9

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n modern football, success doesn’t just bring trophies. It brings visibility, attention, and, at times, unwanted risk. For many players, protecting their family and home environment has become just as important as performing on the pitch.

“I personally chose Chaperone K9 from word of mouth from fellow teammates. Also, I came across their social media page and seeing who they’ve provided dogs for, and the professionalism and care they have for their dogs they train made my mind up fast.”

That’s where Chaperone K9 has earned its reputation.

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Jake O’Brien, Professional Footballer, Everton FC

Within football circles, Chaperone K9 has become a trusted name, known not through heavy promotion but through recommendation. Players speak to players. Teammates share experiences. Families see the results first-hand. It’s this quiet credibility that has positioned the business as a leader in family protection dogs for elite athletes.

be reliable, predictable, and highly intelligent. Chaperone K9 places significant emphasis on matching the right dog to the right household, ensuring a seamless fit from day one.

But the relationship doesn’t end once the dog is delivered.

What makes Chaperone K9 different is its approach. These are not traditional guard dogs trained purely for aggression or deterrence. Each dog is carefully selected and trained to operate as part of a family unit first and foremost. Calm around children, composed in busy households, and socially balanced, while still possessing the capability to respond decisively if a situation ever requires it.

A major reason players continue to choose Chaperone K9 is the level of ongoing support. From collection and drop-off services that fit around demanding schedules, to structured boarding, refresher training, and even caring for clients’ non-protection pet dogs, the business operates more like a long-term partner than a one-time provider. That continuity builds trust, not just with the player, but with their entire family.

For footballers, that balance is critical. Their homes are rarely quiet environments. Family life, visitors, travel schedules and media attention all create a unique dynamic. A protection dog in this setting must

It’s also why many clients return.

That sentiment is echoed across the client base. For players operating at the highest level, trust is everything.

Trust in the product, trust in the people, and trust that what’s promised will be delivered consistently.

Chaperone K9 has built its standing in football by getting those fundamentals right. In a world where players are constantly balancing performance, family life, and personal security, having a dependable solution at home is invaluable. For many, that solution isn’t just a dog—it’s a system, a service, and a relationship they can rely on.

For elite players, peace of mind at home isn’t optional—it’s essential. And Chaperone K9 delivers it every day.

“I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” says Tyrone Mings. “The level of professionalism, the way the dogs are trained, and the support after—it’s on a different level. That’s why I’ve come back for a third dog. It’s not just about security, it’s about having complete confidence in who you’re working with.”

“I’m a big dog lover, and I built up a brilliant relationship with my dog Denzel.

I built up a relationship with Denzel over 3 years. Throughout training, we’d have regular home visits, and we’d go visit, and now he’s just part of the family.”

“Working with Chaperone K9 has been absolutely fantastic. From choosing our family protection dog to organising his boarding and refresher training while we were away, they handled everything with professionalism and care”

James Maddison, Professional Footballer, Tottenham Hotspur FC

Kieran Tierney, Professional Footballer, Celtic FC / Scottish International

Elite Protection Dogs for Sale

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At Chaperone K9, we specialise in offering a carefully selected range of elite protection dogs, ready to provide both exceptional security and devoted companionship. With decades of experience in canine behaviour and security training, we focus on sourcing, training, and placing dogs that excel at safeguarding their handlers while seamlessly integrating into family life.

Our dogs are chosen for their intelligence, temperament, and ability to form strong bonds with their handlers, making them suitable for both intensive protection work and family environments.

Each dog in our program follows a bespoke training plan tailored to the individual needs of its owner. This ensures they are prepared for realworld scenarios such as home and vehicle protection, personal defence, anti-carjacking, and crowd control, while remaining calm, composed, and well-mannered in domestic settings.

Whether you’re seeking enhanced home security, personal protection in public, or a family-friendly guardian, we can match you with the right dog. More than just protectors, our dogs are loyal companions, providing peace of mind wherever you go.

Every dog undergoes rigorous testing in obedience, agility, and emotional resilience, ensuring they are adaptable, well-rounded, and trustworthy partners.

Get in touch today!

0116 464 6100 info@chaperonek9.co.uk Follow our journey: ChaperoneK9 QECP

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THE MAKING OF A COMPLETE FOOTBALLER: INSIDE APEX

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here is a defining moment in every footballer’s journey where talent alone stops being enough. It is not that the talent disappears, it is that the game evolves faster than instinct can keep up. The margins tighten. The demands multiply. What once set you apart becomes the standard.

For APEX Football Performance, that moment is where the real work begins.

“Apex means the highest point,”

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they explain. “But for us, it is not a destination. It is a constant pursuit.”

This philosophy is reshaping how development is understood in the modern era. Reaching your peak is not about arriving, it is about refusing to stay still. Whether a player is returning from injury, navigating a setback, or already competing at an elite level, the objective remains the same. Keep raising the ceiling.

In today’s game, standing still is not neutral. It is regression.

“A space where players refine, rebuild, and expand their game with intention.”

Football has never been more demanding, yet more uniform. Global academy structures and tactical systems have become increasingly standardised, creating players who are more polished than ever, but harder to distinguish.

“The way players separate themselves today is not the same as it was before,” APEX notes. “You have to pursue additional tools beyond the standard environment to stand out.”

APEX operates not as a replacement for the club system, but as a high performance extension of it. A space where players refine, rebuild, and expand their game with intention.

THE NEW STANDARD 83

TRAINING, REIMAGINED At the core of APEX is a simple principle. Everything must have purpose.

Sessions are never generic. They are built around the individual athlete, shaped by their history, their current needs, and their future ambitions.

POSITIONAL INTELLIGENCE While a midfielder may focus on awareness across the pitch and transitional play, a fullback’s work is sharpened to the exact high speed actions they will face in wide areas.

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THE TWO FOOTED MANDATE

is a full day commitment.

One of the most common technical gaps APEX identifies is a heavy reliance on a dominant foot.

“Most of your day is spent off the pitch,” they explain. “All the intangibles, recovery, nutrition, analysis, collectively help you reach your apex.”

“If they work on one side, they work on the other,” they insist. In a game defined by unpredictability, balance becomes a true advantage.

THE HIDDEN PERCENTAGES What happens on the pitch is only the visible part of the story. APEX emphasises that elite performance

While they utilise GPS tracking, APEX does not rely on numbers alone.

Physical data is combined with detailed video and match analysis to ensure players are not simply training, but evolving.

Numbers can measure output. They cannot always measure understanding.

ENVIRONMENT AS A TOOL

Sessions pause at key moments to deliver the information needed to grow, understand, and progress.

Different stages. One objective.

Progress.

THE MOMENT IT CLICKS Progress is often quiet, until suddenly it is not.

For APEX, the most rewarding moments are not found in training, but in competition.

“The most rewarding moment is when a player executes something in a match that they have repeated so many times in training,” they say.

“When they take the time to analyse it afterwards and realise they are reaping what they have sown, that is when they know they have levelled up.”

NOMAS PERFORMANCE Apex has a successful partnership with Nomas Performance; the companies join forces to create an even more complete offseason experience for athletes seeking more comprehensive support.

The modern game does not slow down, so neither does the training.

While match day pressure is unique, APEX believes composure can be developed.

By placing players under constant stress in specific scenarios, those moments stop feeling unfamiliar.

Repetition builds familiarity. Familiarity builds control. And with control, creativity follows.

DIFFERENT STAGES, ONE OBJECTIVE The APEX approach adapts to the athlete’s stage.

For elite players, they act as sparring partners, training alongside them to provide the level of intensity required to stay sharp. For younger players, the focus shifts towards development.

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THE FUTURE OF THE GAME AS FOOTBALL ENTERS A NEW ERA DEFINED BY DATA, AWARENESS, AND CONSTANT EVOLUTION, APEX POSITIONS ITSELF AT THE FOREFRONT. “PLAYERS ARE LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES EVERY DAY,” THEY SAY. “WE WANT TO CONTINUE MAKING AN IMPACT ACROSS ALL LEVELS, HELPING PLAYERS REACH THEIR APEX NOT ONLY PROFESSIONALLY, BUT IN ALL ASPECTS OF LIFE.” BECAUSE REACHING YOUR APEX WAS NEVER THE GOAL. CHASING IT IS.

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APEX IS PROUD TO PRESENT A UNIQUE APPROACH TO PLAYER DEVELOPMENT THAT CLEARLY DISTINGUISHES THEM FROM TRADITIONAL TRAINING METHODS.

APEX SPECIALISES IN PROVIDING PERSONALISED TRAINING EXPERIENCES THAT FOCUS ON THE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS OF EACH ATHLETE, BOTH ON A PERSONAL LEVEL AND WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE GAME. Apex’s methodology is built around game-related exercises and practices, specifically adapted to improve technical skills, positional awareness, and tactical understanding. This targeted approach to training enables optimised development, resulting in improved decision-making and superior performance on the field.

GET IN TOUCH WITH BALL FOR AN INTRODUCTION +44 7534769508 | info@ball.london | Q ball.members 87

The Algarve Advantage

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here’s a reason the Algarve has become the off-season destination of choice for the modern footballer.

It’s not just the climate, or the coastline, or even the privacy - it’s the ease. A place where everything is in place, exactly when you need it.

Mornings are structured around performance. Early sessions, focused work, marginal gains. But beyond that, the experience becomes effortless.

The right setting, the right pace, the right table - all without having to think twice.

Throughout the day, every detail is taken care of. From beachside settings and last-minute dinner reservations to private villas, yacht charters, and access to the region’s most sought-after golf courses, everything is arranged around you. It’s a level of ease and access that turns a stay into something far more considered.

Because at this level, time matters.

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Energy matters. And how you spend your time away from training is just as important as the work itself.

For those visiting the Algarve this summer, everything is taken care of.

From last-minute plans to fully curated stays, simply scan the QR code to access dedicated lifestyle support throughout your time here.

For those seeking a comprehensive lifestyle management service, we offer a very limited number of membership opportunities. This exclusivity ensures we can maintain the exceptional level of service we’re known for.

Members enjoy all lifestyle management services, access to exclusive brand events, promotions and high end offers, giveaways, full access to our network and the opportunity to feature your business in Ball magazine.

TESTIMONIALS “I’ve always struggled with corporate entertainment, whether it was the planning or truly understanding the ROI. While my intentions were good, I often redirected my efforts and budget toward nurturing internal relationships that I valued most.

However, I recently had the pleasure of working with Constance and her team at Ball for organising various trips, events, unique experiences and even securing some hard-to-get tickets for our team and clients. Constance completely alleviated the time and stress of planning so I could focus on running the business, highly recommended and couldn’t go back to how we used to do it.”

“Connie is always there to assist me whenever I need it. When I’m busy, it’s easy to overlook special occasions or

important dates in my personal life, but Connie has saved me countless times with her thoughtful reminders and recommendations. My membership has granted me access to a variety of events & opportunities to develop my business further. On the rare occasion I ask for something outside of their usual scope she will go out, network and present a solution. For me, my membership with Ball is invaluable as it allows me to prioritise the people who matter most.”

“So far, I’ve booked a couple of holidays, organised a wedding, consulted with a lawyer and wealth manager, purchased a new home, and made some home improvements—all with Connie and the teams help. They are honest, trustworthy, and consistently provide outstanding service.”

For your personalised proposal, please contact the lifestyle management team. Please note, becoming a member is a selective process. We take privacy and security very seriously, please allow up to 14 days for us to review your application. +44 7534769508

|

memberships@ball.london

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www.ball.london

Q ball.members

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Luxury 1 & 2 BR Apartments Starting from £180,000

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M A N O R S G O L F. C O M

PLEDGE YOUR ALLEGIANCE.

PARIS MAGHOMA THE PROCESS AND THE PROMISE

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STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

“It Is God And My Family Who Keep Me Grounded” PHOTOGRAPHER: TYRONE SIBANDA

How would you describe yourself right now, both as a player and as a person?

“I would say I am pretty confident but also laid back at the same time.

As a player, it is just nice to be back playing and doing what I love. Being in a great team and environment is something I have definitely missed.

As a person, I feel like I am at a stage where I have grown a lot and I am still growing. I am looking more towards the positives in life and building a stronger relationship with God.” What keeps you grounded as your career continues to grow?

“Definitely God and my family. They are both a very big part of my life.”

When do you feel the most confident in yourself?

“I think at all times to be honest. But as a footballer, when you are doing well on the pitch, your confidence naturally grows and you start playing in that flow state. Still, it is God and my family who keep me grounded.”

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What are your earliest memories of falling in love with football?

“For me, it was watching my oldest brother, Jacques Maghoma. He has always been someone I have looked up to. I used to go to his games and say that I wanted to be like him and do exactly what he does.”

Who had the biggest influence on you when you were younger?

“My oldest brother Jacques.”

Was there a moment when you realised you could really go far in the game?

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

EARLY JOURNEY AND BACKGROUND

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

“I do not know to be honest. Probably around 14 or 15, when you start to realise you have a decent chance.

Around the time I started getting called up for England. But looking back, you see so many players you grew up with who did not make it, which shows how hard it is. It takes constant hard work and sacrifice to reach the highest level.”

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GAME AND DEVELOPMENT 96

What part of your game have you worked hardest to improve over the last year?

“Honestly, just staying fit and injury free. It has been a rough ride. A lot of it has been off the pitch. Having a personal trainer and a physio has helped me so much over the last six months.”

How do you handle pressure or expectations, especially at a young age?

“It is difficult, especially now with social media and being in the spotlight. That is why having a good circle around you is so important.

Whether it is family or friends, you need people who help you navigate the highs and lows because you cannot always be at your best.”

LIFE AROUND FOOTBALL What does a normal day look like for you outside of training or matches?

“Just chilling to be honest. Watching TV or playing PlayStation. Football is demanding physically and mentally so when I am away from it I like to switch off. I have a few hobbies as well, like making clothes or playing guitar.”

What does a good performance feel like to you, beyond just the result?

What kind of music are you listening to at the moment?

“With how demanding football is now, it is about everything. How much you run, your defensive work, what you do on the ball and how effective you are. Of course it is nice to score or assist, but even when that does not happen you can still have a strong performance. Scoring always feels good though.”

“J. Cole, especially his new album The Fall Off. Also Gunna and Drake.”

How would your friends describe you away from football?

“Performative. Just a chill guy.

Someone who is loving and caring and wants to support the people around him.”

What helps you switch off mentally?

“Music, being around my friends and family, and my hobbies.”

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STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

“Everyone is different, from different cultures and backgrounds, and that is what makes a dressing room special.”

Who has helped you the most in your development so far?

“There are a lot of people, but a few stand out. Neil McFarlane, Sam Saunders and John McDermott. They have all helped me in different ways.

With John, it took me years to really understand what he was telling me during my youth career at Spurs, but looking back he could not have been more right.”

With Neil and Sam, I am not sure I would even be a footballer without them. They helped me so much on the pitch, but even more off it. They changed me as a person and have been a life saver.”

What is something people would be surprised to learn about the dressing room atmosphere?

“That we are all human. Sometimes it feels like people forget that. We are just people at the end of the day.

Everyone is different, from different cultures and backgrounds, and that is what makes a dressing room special.”

GROWTH AND MINDSET What has football taught you about discipline or patience?

“A lot. Especially when you are injured or not playing. It can get depressing at times. But in those moments, the people around me and my faith have always kept me going. There is always light at the end of the tunnel. You cannot control everything, only what you do. As long as you keep going and do not give up, you will be okay.”

What motivates you on tough or repetitive days?

“Just reminding myself how blessed I am. Not just in football, but in life.

There is so much going on in the world and things could be very different. Staying grateful keeps me going.”

How do you measure progress in yourself?

“By looking at where I have come from. My journey has been different to a lot of players I grew up with. Some were in the Premier League at 19 or 20, while I was on loan in League Two trying to build my name.”

“Now I can say I have played in the Premier League and I am in the Championship, which I am proud of.

I have still got a long way to go, but I have fallen in love with the process.”

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STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

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STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

PM

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STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

LOOKING FORWARD What kind of player do you want to become in the next few years?

“Someone who excites fans. Someone who is ruthless and relentless in everything he does. A player who plays with and for God and always gives his best.”

A player you admired growing up?

What do you hope people feel when they watch you play?

One word that describes your mindset right now?

“Joy and happiness. I want to get fans off their feet and make them feel something. I want them to watch and think wow he is amazing. That would mean everything to me.”

“Hungry.”

QUICK FIRE Favourite city you have visited?

“Miami.”

One thing you always take on away trips? “iPad.” Pre match routine or superstition?

“I always put my left boot on first.”

STYLIST: MARCUS PANCHO

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“My oldest brother and Ronaldinho.”

Paris Maghoma is practicing the art of intentionality. From the influence of his brother to the “flow state” of his current game, his ascent feels refreshing precisely because it wasn’t instant.

He has traded the noise of expectation for a curated, relentless progression, one built on faith, family, and the beauty of the slowburn evolution.

Whether he’s stitching a garment or deconstructing a defense, Maghoma isn’t just playing the game; he’s mastering the tempo. The static has cleared, and the fit is perfect. Paris is exactly where he’s meant to be.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MARCUS PANCHO

FASHION ASSISTANT: FESTUS ABO

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSH SNAPS

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The Hidden Level: How Basements Became the Most Coveted Space in Britain’s Smartest Homes

B

eneath some of the UK’s smartest homes, something interesting is happening—and unless you’re invited in, you’d never know it’s there.

For a long time, basements were an afterthought. Storage, utility, maybe a gym if space allowed. But that’s changed. Now, in many cases, the basement is the reason the project exists in the first place.

Part of it comes down to necessity.

In prime parts of the city, you can’t always build up or out. Planning is tight, neighbours are close, and the architecture above ground often needs to stay exactly as it is.

Digging down becomes the obvious move—not just to gain space, but to do it quietly, without disturbing the character of the house.

But what’s interesting is what people choose to do with that space once they have it.

There’s something about being below ground that shifts the mood.

It’s calmer, more enclosed, a little

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removed from the rest of the house.

And that makes it perfect for rooms that are about switching off, or focusing in.

A cinema, for example, just works better down there. No stray daylight, no background noise from the street— just a properly controlled environment where everything, from the acoustics to the lighting, can be exactly as it should be. It stops feeling like a “media room” and starts to feel like an experience.

The same goes for things like a golf simulator. It’s not the sort of setup that naturally sits within a formal living space upstairs, but in a basement, it fits easily. You’ve got the height, the freedom, and the ability to design it properly—so it feels less like a novelty and more like something you’ll actually use.

Then there are the slower, more traditional spaces. A snooker room, for instance, seems to belong underground. The lower light levels, the sense of quiet, the slightly clublike atmosphere—it all comes together

in a way that would be harder to achieve elsewhere in the house.

Wine rooms follow a similar logic. Yes, the conditions are right down there, but it’s also about the ritual of it.

These spaces are no longer tuckedaway storage; they’re somewhere to spend time, to open a bottle, to share it. They’ve become part of the lifestyle rather than just supporting it.

What ties all of this together is a shift in how people think about their homes. It’s less about formal rooms and more about how you actually live—how you relax, entertain, and spend your time.

And in that sense, the basement isn’t really an add-on anymore. It’s a way of creating something you couldn’t quite achieve above ground. A layer of the house that feels more personal, more flexible, and, in many ways, more enjoyable.

From the outside, nothing gives it away. But that’s part of the appeal.

The best parts of the house aren’t always the ones you see first—they’re the ones you discover later.

Unlock the Space Beneath

Transform Your Basement into Something

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Transforming Gyms into High-Performance Spaces The impact of lighting, flow & natural elements on elite performance The gym is no longer a solely functional space — it is a foundation for performance, recovery, and wellbeing. For professional athletes and highperforming individuals, design directly impacts both training outcomes and the quality of rest and regeneration.

Materials, finishes, and equipment placement convey intention, fostering consistency, attention, and commitment to personal wellbeing. The most effective fitness spaces anticipate users’ needs, merging performance requirements with comfort and aesthetic coherence.

Thoughtful design translates into measurable benefits.

Spatial flow, zoning, and lighting are not just aesthetic choices; they shape how the body moves, how energy is managed, and how focus is maintained.

Clearly defined areas for warm-up, training, and recovery reduce cognitive friction, making sessions seamless and purposeful.

Modern home and commercial gyms reflect a cultural shift: wellness as a lifestyle, not a task. Spaces that balance efficiency, recovery, and enjoyment serve the body, mind, and sense of self. Luxury, minimalism, and considered design ensure the gym is not just a room, but a space supporting sustainable performance.

Biophilic elements such as natural light, greenery and tactile materials, elevate a gym beyond function.

Research shows these features support stress reduction, mood, and engagement, subtly enhancing performance while fostering wellbeing. Spaces that resonate with natural rhythms invite not just exercise, but mindful presence.

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Ultimately, the gym of today is defined by intention.

It is not simply a place for repetition; it is a curated environment where design drives results. For athletes, executives, and high-performers alike, a well-designed fitness space is a strategic tool — one that elevates performance, supports wellbeing, and reflects a commitment to excellence in every dimension of life.

www.layrddesign.co.uk info@layrddesign.co.uk 01223 952992

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PROTECTING THE LIFE YOU’VE BUILT. Your lifestyle is unique. So is our approach.

We offer bespoke insurance solutions designed around the needs of your family - from homes and holiday retreats to valuables and collections.

With a dedicated team of Private Client specialists, we help you protect what you’ve built - today, and for the future.

Protection starts with a conversation.

Get in touch for more information, or to arrange a complimentary review of your existing insurance programmes.

We’d love to hear from you.

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HOLIDAY RETREATS

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Partners& is a trading style of Partners& Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales. No 00497227.

Registered office MRIB House, 25 Amersham Hill, High Wycombe HP13 6NU. +44 (0) 3300 940177

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Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View Hurghada’s Newest Elevated Luxury Experience

The latest jewel on Hurghada’s coast, this resort introduces an elevated take on beachfront living. Nestled beside the original Rixos Premium Magawish Suites & Villas, it showcases contemporary design, sweeping Red Sea vistas, chic rooms and suites, and refined dining venues.

Guests enjoy an enhanced Ultra All-Inclusive concept and full access to both Magawish resorts, along with immersive entertainment and elevated wellness offerings.

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Be among the first to experience Hurghada’s newest icon of beachfront luxury. From chic suites and sweeping sea views to elevated Ultra All-Inclusive indulgence, let Ball Travel curate your perfect stay at Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View.

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A Distinguished countryside retreat on Mapridge Green Lane Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, HP16

Set in the heart of the sought-after countryside of Great Missenden, Rignalls on Mapridge Green Lane is an exceptional six-bedroom residence that combines timeless character with generous living space and privacy.

6 Bedrooms

4 Bathrooms

This impressive home is approached via a private driveway, offering a sense of arrival and seclusion. Inside, the property boasts expansive and versatile accommodation, ideal for both family living and entertaining.

Multiple reception rooms provide elegant yet comfortable spaces, with large windows framing picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and allowing natural light to flood throughout.

Guide Price £4,000,000 Book your exclusive viewing info@ball.london +44 7534 769508

An exceptional Grade II listed Georgian Manor House overlooking mature parkland Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6

Listed Grade II of being of architectural and historic importance, Ayot Bury is a handsome early 18th century family home constructed of mellow red brick under a pitched clay tile and slate roof. The central façade has a perfect symmetry with later 19th century additions to the west and east.

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Presenting the first opportunity to purchase in this iconic development, The Oria at 100 Kensington features 129 exclusive residences, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Soaring 29 storeys high, The Oria is the tallest residential tower in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, boasting uninterrupted views across the London skyline and half an acre of private landscaped gardens.

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100kensington.com 020 7167 7417 sales@100kensington.com 115

THE WELLNESS GROUP

Bespoke Wellness Spaces Designed For Those Who Expect The Best.

THE

The Luxury Wellness Group encompasses both Super Prime Fitness (luxury homes) and Superyacht Fitness (luxury yachts). At the LWG, we design and build extraordinary wellness spaces tailored to the discerning individual’s lifestyle. Unbound by any single supplier, we curate the finest equipment from across the market – selecting only what’s right for our customer. With a meticulous eye for detail and a highly personal approach, we create environments that inspire, endure, and feel unmistakably THE personal.

Trusted by superyacht owners, elite sports clubs, and world-class athletes – our expertise is proven at the highest level.

THE

WELLNESS GROUP

WELLNESS GROUP

THE WELLNESS GROUP

Q&A with The Luxury Wellness Group

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What experience do you have in the fitness and wellness industry?

With over 30 years of experience, we’ve built world-class gyms for elite athletes and installed premium fitness equipment at the top football training grounds in the UK. Our expertise is trusted by world-renowned clubs and high-profile individuals who expect nothing but the best.

Where are you based, and do you work internationally?

We are primarily based in the UK, but our reach is global. From private residences in Europe to elite training grounds worldwide, we specialise in delivering bespoke fitness solutions wherever our clients need us.

What sets The Luxury Wellness Group apart from others in the industry?

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to select only the finest products from the world’s best brands, without bias. Our extensive network ensures Ball members benefit from exclusive access, preferred pricing, and equipment that reflects their exact preferences.

With strong ties to charter companies, brokers, and captains, we provide access to the best onboard fitness solutions - discreetly and seamlessly.

What areas of wellness do you specialise in?

We create luxury gyms for superyachts, tailored to the space and needs of each vessel. In addition, we offer crew wellness programmes and a wide range of premium wellness products, ensuring excellence at sea, as well as on land.

We go far beyond traditional gyms.

We design immersive wellness environments, including:

What services do you provide onboard yachts?

– Pilates Reformers – Red Light Therapy – Saunas & Steam Rooms – Cold Plunges & Swimming Pools

Can I rent fitness equipment for my yacht charter?

Each element is integrated seamlessly, creating a space that is as functional as it is luxurious.

Absolutely. Our tailored rental service allows you to have your preferred fitness equipment onboard for your charter - we make wellness effortless wherever you are in the world.

Do you offer any flexible or alternative equipment solutions?

Every gym we create is entirely tailored - built around your space, your goals, and your lifestyle. We don’t believe in templates. From the first call to the final installation, we provide a discreet, white-glove service that ensures every element is refined to perfection.

Yes, we do. For clients transitioning between homes or travelling frequently, we offer a premium rental service, as well as access to a curated selection of pre-owned equipment - always maintained to the highest standard.

Why do ball.london members choose to work with you?

What is your background in the superyacht industry?

We are completely independent and equipment-agnostic. This allows us

Our Co-Founder brings over 18 years of experience in the superyacht world.

Do you provide wellness professionals or additional support for charters?

Yes. Through our exclusive network, we can arrange for sports scientists, physiotherapists, strength coaches, and even private doctors to join your charter - perfect for rehabilitation, pre-season preparation, or tailored wellness support.

To discuss a new project contact The Luxury Wellness Group Team. info@theluxurywellnessgroup.com

Bespoke luxury home gyms and wellness spaces, expertly designed and installed for the discerning client.

SUPERPRIME fitness

Elevating onboard wellness with elite fitness space design and outfitting, plus tailored wellbeing solutions for crew.

www.theluxurywellnessgroup.com | info@theluxurywellnessgroup.com 117

FOOTBALL, FAITH, AND A LIFE WITHOUT NOISE 118

There is something quietly compelling about Majeed Ashimeru.

He does not speak in dramatic soundbites. He does not try to make his life sound bigger or more glamorous than it is. In fact, when asked what a typical day looks like away from training and matchdays, he answers with complete honesty.

“I would say it is very boring,” he says.

It is not the answer you expect from a professional footballer playing at one of Belgium’s biggest clubs, representing Ghana, and carrying the kind of journey that began in Maamobi, a small town in Accra, and stretched all the way into European football. But that is exactly what makes him interesting.

There is no performance with Ashimeru. No attempt to dress things up. His world away from football is simple. He wakes up, eats, rests, watches shows, maybe goes for a walk later in the day, comes back, has dinner, and stays home.

“I don’t really like going out,” he says.

“I just stay home.”

For some, that might sound uneventful. For Ashimeru, it is peace.

A way of staying grounded in a life that has already demanded so much movement, adaptation, discipline, and faith.

His routine is not built around excess.

It is built around calm.

“I like to be happy,” he says. “I don’t like being stressed outside football.

When I’m happy, my mind is at ease, and I feel like I can do anything on the pitch.”

That sentence explains more than it first appears to. For Ashimeru, football is not just physical. It is emotional, mental, and spiritual. His performance comes from a place of balance, and that balance is protected carefully.

Home. Prayer. Family. Music. TV shows. Walks. Stillness.

THIS IS THE WORLD BEHIND THE MIDFIELDER. 119

“SHE WAS DOING EVERYTHING JUST FOR ME TO BE HAPPY AND GO PLAY FOOTBALL.” Before Anderlecht, before Ghana, before Europe, there was Maamobi.

Ashimeru grew up in the capital city of Ghana, in a small town where football was part of everyday life. His earliest memories are not of stadiums or contracts, but of playing for fun, surrounded by friends, with a local team called Strong Tower.

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game. But things began to shift when he joined an academy. That was when football became something more serious.

“She was really, really in support. She was buying me football shoes. She was doing everything just for me to be happy and go play football.”

“That was when everything changed,” he says. “I started to feel like this is something I really love doing, and this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Like many young Ghanaian footballers, Ashimeru grew up watching the greats. Ghana has produced names that have carried the hopes of a nation across generations, and for him, two figures stood out.

“We used to play in the city,” he remembers. “We played games just for fun.”

The dream did not grow alone. Behind it was a family who believed in him, especially his mother.

At first, it was simply love. A boy with a ball, enjoying the feeling of the

“My father was also in support, but I would say more my mother,” he says.

Michael Essien was one.

“I really loved how he played,” Ashimeru says. “He was a midfielder too.”

“PLAYING FOR GHANA IS A DREAM COME TRUE.” Asamoah Gyan was another. Years later, Ashimeru would meet him after being called up to the national team.

To grow up watching players in Ghana’s colours and then one day stand close enough to share that space is not something he takes lightly. It is part of why representing Ghana still feels so powerful to him.

“Playing for Ghana is a dream come true,” he says. “It is one of my biggest dreams. Being able to wear the jersey and represent Ghana is a big, big honour.”

For Ashimeru, the national shirt carries memory. As a young boy, he watched players on television wearing those colours. Now, he is the one wearing them.

“It has always been a dream,” he says. “Being able to achieve that, it is all praise to God.” Faith comes up often when Ashimeru speaks. Not as a polished phrase, but as the foundation of how he understands his life. In moments of happiness, he sees God. In moments of difficulty, he sees God too.

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“EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON.” “Everything happens for a reason,” he says. “Coming from a small city in Ghana and being here, it is by God’s grace.”

After training, he had to learn how to look after himself. What to eat. Where to go. How to manage the quiet hours when no one was around.

That belief has helped him through the difficult parts of football, because the journey from Ghana to Europe was not easy.

“Sometimes after training, I had to try and do something to eat, or go out to get food,” he says.

Moving to Europe at a young age was a major life change. The football was different. The weather was different.

The lifestyle was different. But the biggest challenge was not tactical or technical. It was loneliness.

“The biggest challenge was staying alone,” he says. “I had never stayed alone before.”

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It was a world away from Ghana, in every sense.

“Moving from Africa to Europe is two different worlds,” he says.

Still, he adjusted. He learned. He grew.

And then came Switzerland.

His time in Switzerland became a turning point. The 2018 to 2019 season

gave him a feeling he had been working toward since leaving home.

“That year, I had one of my best seasons in Europe,” he says. “After that season, I felt like I had arrived in Europe.”

It was not just about performance.

It was about belief. The feeling that he belonged. That the journey was moving in the right direction.

Today, that journey has taken him to Anderlecht, a club he describes with clear respect.

“It is a privilege to play for a club like Anderlecht,” he says. “It is the biggest club in Belgium.”

“WHEN YOU ARE INTELLIGENT, YOU CAN READ EVERYTHING ON THE PITCH.” He pauses on what it means to come from Ghana and arrive at a club of that size.

“The feeling is something I cannot really describe,” he says. “Coming from Ghana and being able to play for Anderlecht is huge.”

On the pitch, his identity is rooted in intelligence.

“To be a great midfielder, you need intelligence,” he says. “When you are intelligent, you can read everything on the pitch.”

For Ashimeru, midfield is about understanding the game as it unfolds.

“You have to be smart.”

He is also driven by constant improvement.

“I love to learn,” he says. “I love to watch other people. I am always trying to be the best version of myself.”

That hunger remains tied to his love for the game.

“When I am on the pitch, I am just happy,” he says. “That is when I forget everything happening around the world.”

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“I WANT PEOPLE TO REMEMBER ME AS SOMEONE HUMBLE. SOMEONE WHO ALWAYS GAVE EVERYTHING FOR THE TEAM.” Away from football, music plays a big part in his life.

“I love music,” he says. “Everything about me is music.”

His free time is otherwise quiet. He watches TV shows, sometimes reads, and spends most of his time at home.

“I just stay in, relax, and be on my bed,” he says.

When he represents Ghana, that quiet life shifts into responsibility.

“We feel the fans,” he says. “We want to make them happy. We want to make the nation proud.”

The connection is clear.

“These are the people we are fighting for.”

Looking ahead, his ambitions are focused.

“To go to the World Cup. To play in the Champions League again. To take the next step.”

And when it comes to legacy, his answer is simple.

“THESE ARE THE PEOPLE 124

JUST FOOTBALL, FAITH, AND THE PATIENCE TO KEEP GROWING.

“I want people to remember me as someone humble. Someone who always gave everything for the team.”

Not just a footballer.

“A good player, and a good human being.”

For young players in Africa, his message is direct.

“Believe in yourself. Work hard. Stay focused.”

Because he knows what it takes. And perhaps that is why his so called boring life is anything but.

Behind the quiet routine is a player built on discipline, belief, and a deep love for the game.

No noise. No excess.

Just football, faith, and the patience to keep growing.

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Akra Didim: A New Era of Effortless Luxury on the Aegean Coast

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et along the storied shores of Didim, where echoes of ancient civilisations meet the tranquil rhythm of the Aegean, Akra Hotels unveils its latest flagship: Akra Didim.

Opening its doors on April 1, 2026, this highly anticipated retreat marks the brand’s first investment in the region, introducing a refined yet effortless vision of luxury defined by its “Simplicity” philosophy. Spanning an expansive coastal landscape, the resort seamlessly blends natureinspired architecture with serene, understated interiors, offering a yearround sanctuary where wellbeing, sustainability, and elevated comfort converge.

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MATIAS FONDATO

A SECOND LIFE IN COLOUR

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or some athletes, retirement marks an ending. For Matias Fondato, it became a beginning. After a career shaped by the intensity, discipline and rhythm of professional football, Fondato found himself searching for something that could fill the silence left by the game. What emerged was not just a new hobby, but an entirely new language — one spoken through colour, texture and instinct.

Now an artist whose work moves between portraits, landscapes and deeply personal commissions, Fondato paints with the same precision and awareness that once defined him on the field. His journey is not a departure from football, but an evolution of it — a continuation of the same creativity, just expressed on canvas instead of on the pitch.

In this conversation, Fondato reflects on identity, reinvention, and the unexpected ways sport and art intertwine — revealing how,

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sometimes, a second life doesn’t replace the first, but brings it vividly back into focus.

You had a full career in professional football before becoming a painter.

At what moment did you realise art wasn’t just a hobby, but your second life?

“I’ve always loved drawing, my whole life. I started painting a couple of years after I stopped playing professionally, while I was coaching. After my first painting, I began getting requests, and that’s when I realised this could be an opportunity to, for the second time in my life, turn my passion into my job.”

Do you remember the very first painting you ever made? What did it mean to you at the time?

“My first painting was a portrait of DeAndre Yedlin. To be honest, it was just a way to share a passion with him, as we had become very good friends at the time.”

Growing up in Argentina, what inspired you more, football or creativity? Or were both always present in different ways?

“Football was my life, all the time, even now. But creativity was always there too, through sketches, drawings, and even funny comics for my friends, always just for fun.”

Many athletes struggle with identity after retiring. Was painting something that helped you redefine yourself?

“It helped me a lot. When I retired, I didn’t have clarity about what to do with my life. I had my coaching badges, worked with agents, as a translator, and as a consultant, but painting was the only thing that could truly fill the emptiness of not playing anymore.”

What was harder, the physical demands of football or the vulnerability of showing your art to the world for the first time?

“Football was always hard, but in the best ways. The demands, the exposure, everything I experienced playing in different countries made showing my art feel easier. I had the privilege of starting by painting for players who were teammates, opponents, or friends.”

Did your teammates or people from football understand your shift into art, or did you feel misunderstood at first?

“At the beginning, people were surprised because the shift was quite big. Over time, when they understood what it meant to me, they realised my path was still connected to football, just moving more into the art world.”

“WHEN I PAINT SOMETHING RELATED TO FOOTBALL, IT BECOMES EVEN MORE SPECIAL.” Do you see similarities between defending on the pitch and painting on a canvas, timing, instinct, anticipation?

“Absolutely. I truly believe football is art in every sense. The shapes on the pitch, the creativity, the instinct, the decision making. In my case, as a defensive midfielder or centre back, I was always very visual. I relied on peripheral vision, timing, distances, and shapes, so I definitely see many similarities.”

Are there moments from your playing days that you feel compelled to capture visually rather than in words?

“One hundred percent. I am a very visual person, so most of my memories are visual. Now my way of expressing what I feel is through painting or drawing, something people can see and connect with.”

How much of your football past still lives in your artwork today?

Your work spans portraits, animals, landscapes and more. What subjects pull you in the most emotionally?

“Football will never be the past for me. I carry the same values, the same discipline, and the same creativity. I cannot separate one from the other.

When I paint something related to football, it becomes even more special.”

“I feel connected to all my paintings, even when I do not personally know the client. I always try to build that connection. But of course, football paintings, especially when I know the person well, carry a deeper emotional weight.”

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What does a typical day in your studio look like? Are you disciplined like an athlete, or more instinctive as an artist?

“I developed discipline over more than 20 years in football, and I bring that into my creative world. I do not wait for inspiration. I go and find it, whether that is through walking, running, reading, or simply having a conversation that sparks something.”

Do you paint in silence, or is there always music in the background?

What kind?

“It depends on the mood. Sometimes I enjoy silence, but most of the time I have music on. It can be anything from classical or instrumental to English rock like Oasis, Queen, and The Beatles, as well as Argentinian folklore, Cuarteto, or Pop. Sometimes I even listen to podcasts.”

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Football teaches resilience. How has that mentality helped you as an artist?

“Football built my mindset like iron.

It is an incredible school for life.

You learn resilience and how to deal with mistakes. In football you are constantly making decisions, just like with every brushstroke.”

“When mistakes happen, it is about trying again, better, wiser, stronger, and more precise.”

When a painting doesn’t go the way you imagined, how do you deal with frustration now compared to your playing days?

“Frustration is part of life. Things do not always go your way, but it is about how you react. My experience in football helped me massively with that.”

You have lived and worked in different countries. How have Argentina and England shaped your artistic voice differently?

“I started painting in England, which is very special to me as I lived there for eight years and still have many friends. Now I am back in Argentina. I have had the privilege of painting for people in more than 20 countries, and I try to adapt to each culture while carrying every influence with me. No matter where I am, I paint with the same passion.”

Does travel change the way you see colour, light, or mood in your work?

“Travel is one of the most beautiful things in life, especially for a curious and creative mind. It opens something inside you, a box of ideas and perspectives that I try to bring into my work.”

What brings you the most peace today, finishing a painting, or remembering a great match from your career?

“They are different, but I cannot separate them. The passion and feeling are exactly the same. Both are a very important part of my life.”

Outside of football and art, what inspires you most?

“I find inspiration everywhere,

especially in nature, travelling, exercise, music, influential people, and history.”

Looking back, do you feel football prepared you for this life, or did art reveal something new?

“Both. Football prepared me for this life, and at the same time, art allowed me to explore feelings and experiences I did not have the chance to express before.”

If you could speak to your younger self, what would you tell him?

“I would tell him to trust himself, prepare properly in whatever he chooses, trust his instincts, listen to his inner voice more than external opinions, follow his dreams, and turn his passion into his way of life regardless of what people say or think.”

If Ball Magazine spent a day with you, what would we discover that people do not see on Instagram?

“I love life, so you would definitely find me doing something. Spending time with loved ones, exercising, eating barbecue with friends, maybe playing guitar, making jokes, talking about football with friends all over the world, helping people, and most importantly, being consistent between what I say and what I do.”

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BENGHAZI RETURNS TO THE GLOBAL SPORTS STAGE A powerful night of unity, resilience, and renewal as elite European clubs helped mark the city’s long-awaited comeback to international sport.

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enghazi marked a historic moment as it welcomed Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan for a landmark international friendly, signalling a powerful new chapter for the city and for Libyan sport as a whole.

The match was held at the newly relaunched Benghazi International Stadium, officially reopening the venue for the first time in over 10 years.

In front of an estimated 40,000+ fans, the two European giants delivered an entertaining contest that ended 1–1 in regular time. The occasion was decided by penalties, where Atlético Madrid emerged victorious to lift the symbolic Reconstruction Cup, a trophy representing renewal, resilience, and Libya’s return to hosting elite-level football.

Beyond the scoreline, the numbers told a deeper story. This was the first match of its kind in Benghazi in more than a decade, featuring two UEFA Champions League winning clubs, played in a stadium that has undergone extensive redevelopment to meet modern international standards.

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IN A STADIUM SILENT FOR OVER A DECADE, 40,000 VOICES PROVED THAT FOOTBALL CAN REIGNITE PRIDE, RESILIENCE, AND HOPE.

The event drew global media attention and welcomed supporters from across Libya, highlighting football’s ability to unite and inspire.

We had the pleasure of attending this historic occasion in support of Benghazi’s vision to establish itself as a recognised destination for international sport. Being present was not only about the match, but about backing a city reclaiming its place on the world stage, using sport as a platform for pride, progress, and global connection.

As the floodlights illuminated Benghazi International Stadium once again, the message was clear and measurable: Benghazi is back, capable of hosting world-class teams, drawing tens of thousands of fans, and firmly positioning itself as a rising city of sport.

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E X P E R I E N C E T H E F I N E S T YA C H T S

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