William Saliba is the most recent celebrity to join Crocs’ roster of high-profile brand ambassadors. The Arsenal center back, who has a sophisticated sense of style, has joined the footwear family in an attempt to spread the word that athletes can be major influencers in fashion as well as encourage more individuals to express themselves via style.

Arriving at the north London club at a period when fashion inspired by football was gaining popularity, he made the most of his platform to showcase his personal style, earning him attention both on and off the field. Football players’ interests in fashion haven’t always been supported by the sport, but Saliba and his stylish teammates want to change that. However, the football player’s distinctive flare and daring fashion choices would have still drawn attention even if the sports-driven trend had never taken off.

Saliba, who was born in northern France, moved to Saint-Étienne in the south, and is currently a resident of London, uses his style to reflect the locations he has called home with confidence. He usually goes for a “very French”-looking base with simple, elegant mid-layers made by high-end designers. Then, he accessorizes his looks in a more avant-garde way, using vivid shoes, eye-catching purses, and an extensive assortment of colored sunglasses.

In the most recent Crocs advertisement, the company showcases Saliba’s transition from the depths of the countryside to the city through a montage of photos. Wearing a sleek ensemble of short sleeves, shorts, and a bright red Crocs Echo Clog, he demonstrates how his sense of style is an integral aspect of who he is and will follow him wherever he goes.

Saliba talks about his unique style and why it’s so significant to him in an exclusive conversation with Hypebeast.

William Saliba: I’ve always been interested in Crocs due of their amazing array of designs and styles. In the world of footwear today, Crocs is the pinnacle of comfort and individual style, enabling people to express themselves in a way that is distinctly their own. Like Crocs, I’ve always valued being unique. Anyone who knows shoes, I believe, knows about Crocs. All you’ll need are some Crocs.

The new ad highlights the streetwear-focused Echo clog. Which of the model’s features are your favorites, and how do they fit into your busy lifestyle?

With a focus on creative sculpting, striking form, and comfort above all else, the Echo Clog represents a whole new design language for the company. My typical workday consists of a combination of meetings, team training, and personal leisure. The Echo Clogs are ideal in every occasion, whether I’m walking to the training ground or simply relaxing or going for a walk. I’m aware that the Echo family has a lot of plans in the works, so stay tuned for further releases—they’re all quite amazing!

“It’s a method to demonstrate that, even as a professional athlete, I can maintain my top level of performance on the field while still having a distinctive sense of style.”

Could you explain the significance of shoes and clothing in your life off the field?

Outside of the field, I place a great deal of importance on my appearance and footwear since they convey who I am and how I’m feeling that particular day. I enjoy experimenting with different looks and fashions, and since shoes can make or ruin an ensemble, they play a crucial role in how I express myself. I want comfortable shoes that look beautiful, especially when I’m traveling with Arsenal or my national team or after long days. I love receiving compliments from people and showcasing my own style. It’s a chance for me to demonstrate that, despite being a professional athlete, I can look great on the field and still be at the top of my game.

These days, the football fashion scene is flourishing. In fact, the scene’s homogeneity has inspired me to continue experimenting with my particular style off the field. There isn’t much room for individual style when you’re on the field because you’re wearing the same uniform as your teammates. Hence, I see it as a chance to express my individuality and creativity through my wardrobe when I’m not performing.

London can be compared as a melting pоt of several global cultures, influences, and styles. This cultural diversity, in my opinion, fosters an atmosphere of uniqueness and creativity that is difficult to find elsewhere. Though not as rich as that of Paris, London has a rich history of fashion, which is further distinguished by the city’s active street style scene. I adore the city and the places I’ve been since you can visit several neighborhoods and find that each person has a unique flair.