Miguel Adedayo Azeez is not your typical footballer. While many know him for his years at Arsenal and his current journey with PAS Giannina in Greece, his ambitions go far beyond the pitch. At just 22, he’s carving a unique path, blending his deep love for football with an emerging passion for fashion and self-expression. Inspired by the bold styles of the ’70s and ’80s, Miguel is bringing a fresh perspective to football culture, one that embraces creativity, confidence, and authenticity. In this exclusive interview, Miguel talks about his journey from Arsenal’s youth ranks to the Greek Super League, his evolving style, the influence of faith on his life, and why he believes footballers should embrace self-expression without fear.
Fashion, Faith & Football
FAB: Can you tell us about your early football journey? What are your earliest memories of playing, and who or what inspired you to pursue the sport at such a young age?
Miguel Azeez: My earliest football memories are simply playing every day, whether at training with my local team, Harrow at Mary’s, or at home with my brother and dad. I always had a ball at my feet. My father was a big inspiration, but more than anything, I just loved the game.
FAB: You’ve recently joined PAS Giannina in Greece. Have any cultural or footballing aspects of Greece surprised or inspired you?
Miguel Azeez: One thing that really surprised me is how much coffee people drink here; it’s like water!
FAB: Alongside your football career, you’re passionate about fashion. How did this passion begin, and what does fashion mean to you as a form of self-expression?
Miguel Azeez: Fashion, for me, is in everything—not just clothes. It’s a reflection of your thoughts, personality, and how you see life. Honestly, I don’t remember a specific moment when it clicked. It’s something that evolved naturally over time. The freer I feel in my life, the bolder I become with fashion.
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FAB: You’ve mentioned being influenced by the bold styles of the ’70s and ’80s. What about those decades resonates with you, and how do you incorporate their elements into your personal style?
Miguel Azeez: I’ve always been into fashion, but my style has changed a lot. Between 14 and 18, I was all about hoodies, spray-on jeans, and Air Forces. As I got deeper into ’70s and ’80s music and started playing the bass, I became curious about the history behind the sound. I researched everything—music, culture, fashion—and was drawn to the way artists dressed back then. It felt timeless, so I started incorporating elements of it into my own style.
FAB: Football has a global reach, and so does fashion. How do you hope to connect these two worlds and make a lasting impact beyond the game?
Miguel Azeez: I want to inspire people, athletes and non-athletes alike, to embrace freedom in their personal expression. Footballers, in particular, often feel restricted by club culture and public perception. I believe that feeling free off the pitch directly affects performance on it. My goal is to pioneer a shift in how football and fashion intersect. Right now, most players wear the same clothes, shoes, and jewellery. I want people to embrace individuality and, as I say, “be as free as Miguel.”
Miguel Azeez: The biggest challenge is finding time for photoshoots within my football schedule, but there’s always a way to make it work.
FAB: You come from a Christian family. How has your faith influenced your career and personal life?
Miguel Azeez: I wouldn’t say I was raised in a strictly religious household; my parents always encouraged me to explore my own beliefs. My faith comes from personal experiences, from seeing things happen in my life that I know could only be the work of God.
FAB: What does it mean to you to redefine football culture and encourage individuality among athletes?
Miguel Azeez: It’s something I’m deeply passionate about. I want people to feel confident in how they dress, talk, and carry themselves without fearing judgement. We’re getting there.
FAB: Are you working on any projects outside of football that you’re excited about?
Miguel Azeez: Yes! There are a few exciting things in the works, but for now, they’re under wraps.
FAB: What advice would you give young athletes or individuals pursuing their dreams, whether in football or other creative fields?
Miguel Azeez: My advice is simple: don’t care too much. The moment you start caring too much about what others think, doubt creeps in, whether about your abilities or how people perceive you. Live how you want. Pursue what you love without hesitation.
Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle With Miguel Azeez
FAB: What is your go-to fragrance or perfume?
Miguel Azeez: Dior elixir
FAB: What is your favourite beauty hack for maintaining a glowing skin?
Miguel Azeez: Ice
FAB: What is your favourite trick for layering clothing in a fashionable way?
Miguel Azeez: Follow your heart and gut.
FAB: How do you balance cardio and strength training in your workouts?
Miguel Azeez: By doing them both hard
FunZone: #FABFastFive
FAB: What is the first thing you do after getting home from a trip?
Miguel Azeez: Listen to music.
FAB: If you could only drink coffee or tea for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?
Miguel Azeez: Coffee
FAB: Which music describes your life at the moment?
Miguel Azeez: Michael Jackson (always)
FAB: What is that one movie you can watch over and over again?
Miguel Azeez: American Gangster
FAB: What is your favourite ice cream topping?
Miguel Azeez: Sprinkles
Credits: Art Direction: Saeed Agboke/Stylist: Saeed Agboke/ Chisato Yamakawa/Film photography: Chisato Yamakawa/Digital Photography: Max Mallen
