A Norwegian in Pisa - interview with Markus Solbakken

Markus Solbakken is an alien in Pisa. The midfielder, who arrived in the Tuscan city from Sparta Prague in January, is a true scandi boy, from the calmness and approachability he shows while wandering around the city center, to the minimal elegance that characterizes his looks, and to the modernity with which he conceives the role of a football player. Son of an art - his father is the coach of Norway - but never letting it get to his head, despite his many passions, or maybe thanks to them. Among these, of course, is fashion.

"My passion for fashion mainly comes from spending time with friends. I think it's a great way to bond with people outside of football. My favorite brand is probably Holzweiler, a Norwegian brand, and Acne Studios. Or Samsøe Samsøe, which is a Scandinavian brand," he tells us under the shadow of the leaning tower. "I think there is a good relationship between football and fashion, but I also think it could be more sensitive, and that clubs are starting to focus more on building a brand outside of football, both in terms of the clothes worn before games and collaborations, which are becoming more and more part of the football world." 

While his Pisa is striving for Serie A, which they haven't been in since the 1990-91 season, Solbakken reveals some of his style secrets. "I like it when people express themselves through the clothes they wear, I find it positive. Personally, I like to shop vintage, find good clothes for a good price, but also if I find something I really like or a piece that stands out. But I don't have a specific garment or style that I always choose, I think it's based on what I like and it changes over time." And when it comes to choosing his favorite football jersey, he relies on vintage once again. "I don't know if I have a dream one, but my father was a professional football player and when he played, he would exchange jerseys with other players. And I have found some really nice ones from the French National Team." And does Solbakken have a dream to fulfill? "Obviously to bring Pisa to Serie A. That's the easiest question".