William Saliba is Championing Unapologetic Individuality as Crocs’ Latest Ambassador

“Going off-pitch is an opportunity to showcase who I am and my creativity through my fashion,” the footballer says in an exclusive interview with Hypebeast.

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Continuing its long run of high-profile appointments, Crocs has named William Saliba as its latest brand ambassador. With his suave dress sense, the Arsenal center-back joins the footwear family in an effort to inspire more people to express themselves through style but more importantly, share the message that athletes can also be fashion heavyweights.

Landing at the north London club during a time when football-inspired fashion was on its way up, he used his platform to show off his expressive style, making him one to be closely-watched both on and off the pitch. Whilst the world of football hasn’t always favored players’ interests in fashion, Saliba hopes to be part of a changing narrative alongside his style-savvy teammates. But, had the sports-driven trend never happened, the footballer would’ve still raised eyebrows for his unique flair and bold dress sense.

Hailing from northern France, later relocating to Saint-Étienne in the south, and now living in London, Saliba confidently uses his style as a way to represent the places he’s called home. Typically, he opts for a base that appears to be “very French” with minimal-yet-classic mid-layers crafted by high-end designers. He then takes a more cutting-edge approach when accessorizing his outfits, with bright shoes, statement bags and a vast collection of tinted sunglasses.

In the latest Crocs campaign, the brand highlights this style journey through a collage of snapshots that sees Saliba move from the depths of the countryside to the city. Adorning a slick look consisting of a short-sleeve shirt, shorts and Crocs’ Echo Clog in a bold red tone, he shows how his style is an encompassing part of his identity and will stay in-tact no matter where he moves to.

In an exclusive interview with Hypebeast, Saliba discusses his personal style and why it holds such an important role in his life.

Hypebeast: Tell us a bit about your relationship with Crocs and how your partnership with the brand came to life.

William Saliba: Crocs has always been on my radar because its various designs and styles are very cool. In the modern-day footwear scene, Crocs epitomizes the fusion of comfort and personal style, allowing individuals to express themselves uniquely. Like Crocs, I’ve always embraced individuality. I think everyone who knows shoes, knows Crocs. You just need a pair of Crocs.

The new campaign focuses on the streetwear-orientated Echo clog. What are your favorite features of the model and how do they fit into your on-the-go lifestyle?

The Echo Clog is a whole new design language for the brand with an emphasis on innovative sculpting, bold form, and of course, comfort. My day-to-day usually involves a mix of team training, meetings and personal time. Whether I’m heading to the training ground or just doing my own thing – chilling or going out for a walk – the Echo Clogs fit all situations perfectly. I know for the Echo family there are many plans in the pipeline so keep an eye out for new drops, they’re all looking crazy!