A global brand with local flavour
FROM OUR ARCHIVE (8 NOVEMBER 2018)
Yesterday I visited the World Travel Market at the eXcel center.
I chose a business attire to avoid being recognised as a Football Dad but as soon as I entered the exhibition center I had dozen of travel and tourism executives from every part of the world wanting to talk to me.
“When will the football Dads visit China?” “Are you interested to open a franchise in Dubai?” “Can we get Tony on loan for the next MLS soccer season in the USA?” “How much money do you want to replace Gold Collagen as main shirt sponsor” and so on.
Of course you know what I replied: the Football Dads are loyal to their base and their home ground, so fans have to travel to Kensington to see us in action, and we never approve loans of our precious players.
Soon after, the Manchester City delegation presented me with the collection of trophies won by Pep’s team last season (Premier League, Carabao Cup and Community Shield). They offered me the three cups in exchange for a free coaching session on defensive tactics by Hannes and Massimo. Reluctantly, I had to decline, we can’t share our secrets, but I conceded them the honour of a photo.
Next was the Chelsea stand. They offered us Hazard, Jorginho and Willian in exchange for Jamal and Daniel. Again, a picture with me is everything they got.
I couldn’t leave the Fair without stopping by the stand of the Walled Off Hotel in Palestine, the hotel which claims to have the “worst view of the world” (it is in Bethlehem, in front of the wall with Israel). Actually it’s an art-hotel with pieces of art from Banksy, including the beautiful opera that you can see pictured here and was on display at eXcel. Quite touching I should say. A reminder that art, like football, can win over wars and bad politics.
I even managed to have a few words with Banksy himself. “I am a big fan of your football” he whispered to me, “I would like to dedicate my next work to your team”. A great honour. Too bad there are no walls in Kensington Garden.