The Brand in the Barber's Chair

In modern football, image has become part of the game. Once, players downplayed their looks to project toughness; today, grooming is a strategic asset, shaping identity, confidence, and commercial power. From David Beckham’s era-defining hairstyles to today’s elite squads flying in star barbers like Sheldon Edwards, a fresh cut can mean visibility, sponsorships, and social-media traction in a billion-pound industry. In this episode, we explore how the barber’s chair became a backstage control room for branding and morale, why style now travels with teams, and how personal aesthetics quietly influence performance, unity, and value on the pitch.https://www.economist.com/1843/2021/06/24/on-me-head-son-the-secret-economics-of-footballers-hair