Why Some Footballers Fear the Label of Hypocrisy
Hector Bellerin, the talented footballer from Arsenal, has always had a deep connection to Real Betis, despite playing for Barcelona. His grandmother, an avid fan of Betis, instilled in him a love for the club since childhood. In 2021, Bellerin had the opportunity to represent Betis on loan and eventually made the move permanent. Since then, his affinity for the club has grown exponentially.
What sets Betis apart for Bellerin is its commitment to sustainability and tackling social issues. The club shares his moral compass and works towards making a positive impact. Bellerin is comfortable discussing these topics at length, from environmental concerns to the pressure faced by modern-day footballers. He believes that not all footballers want to conform to the stereotype of being “strong and manly.” He advocates for clubs to provide psychologists and support for mental health.
Bellerin has always supported Betis’ social causes. During his loan spell, he participated in the Futbol Mas project with his girlfriend, visiting underprivileged areas in suburban Seville to play football with youngsters and discuss emotions and relationships. Now, he takes a keen interest in Betis’ Forever Green initiative. Over the past three years, the club has become La Liga’s greenest club through various measures such as introducing electric bikes and scooters for employees.
Sustainability is a significant aspect of Bellerin’s life. He follows a vegan diet, recycles, uses public transport, and carefully researches his purchases. He bikes to work from his home in central Seville. Bellerin believes that sustainability should be a consideration for every decision in life. He also emphasizes the importance of voting as a means to put people in power who prioritize green initiatives.
In terms of football, Bellerin challenges governing bodies to think smarter about their practices. He suggests reducing flights, using shirts for multiple games, and producing less waste. He points out that traveling by train is a simple and cleaner option, as evidenced by his experiences with Arsene Wenger at Arsenal. Bellerin is critical of expanding tournaments and hosting World Cups across multiple countries, highlighting the strain it puts on fans and the essence of football.
Bellerin feels that football is becoming more elitist, focusing on making money rather than prioritizing the people who support the sport. He believes that the essence of football lies in its fans and their unwavering support. As he delves into his concerns about the modernization of football, Bellerin expresses his admiration for Nick Hornby’s Fever Pitch and how it captures the essence of what football once was.
Within the changing rooms of the Benito Villamarin Stadium, Bellerin has found a group of like-minded colleagues who share his views. He wishes to see more footballers speaking up, but understands the challenges they face, such as cancel culture, critics, and clubs protecting their stars. Bellerin believes that as individuals grow older, they should exercise their influence not only as football players but also as citizens.
Bellerin acknowledges that people can change their perspectives over time. However, he highlights the societal pressure that makes it difficult for individuals to expose themselves to criticism. He believes that those who refuse to change are the ones quick to label others as hypocrites. Bellerin himself has faced criticism when discussing sustainability, as he admits to having made mistakes in the past. He encourages a more forgiving society that allows individuals to learn and grow.
When told to “stick to football,” Bellerin finds it amusing how society only imposes this restriction when footballers engage in activities considered less masculine. He points out the discrepancy between the acceptance of playing video games or driving fast cars and the scrutiny faced when engaging in activities like painting nails or attending fashion shows. Bellerin firmly believes that footballers should not be limited to just their profession but should have the freedom to express themselves.
Betis fully supports Bellerin’s endeavors beyond the football pitch. The club, with its strong fanbase of 60,000 people attending matches regularly, plays a vital role in setting an example among big clubs in Spain. Bellerin expresses his pride in the work that Betis does and how it influences and promotes positive behavior within its fanbase.
Hector Bellerin’s journey with Real Betis goes beyond his love for the club; it is about using his platform as a footballer to advocate for sustainability, mental health, and social issues. He challenges the status quo of football, encouraging change and pushing for a more inclusive and responsible industry. Bellerin’s passion for making a difference both on and off the field is commendable, and he serves as an inspiration to footballers and fans alike.