Napoli To Marseille And Back
Napoli-born, Marseille-adopted, Martina is a model who grew up around football and more out of it, turning a hobby into a way of life. Always on the run between photoshoots and matches, we got the chance to catch her for a bit and see what her story is really all about. Read the interview, meet the creator and get to know some really cool behind-the-scenes facts of one of football’s rising creators.
What got you started with football? How did you get involved?
The first time I got into football was during the 2006 World Cup, when Italy won. I was nine years old, and thanks to my dad, who introduced me to the games, I started following football.
How would you describe the relationship between football and fashion?
I think today, especially with the impact of social media, it’s really important to create the right impression. A well-designed campaign can highlight positive values, connect with people more authentically, and share good things that truly resonate.
Do you get involved in promoting football in your local community?
Yes, especially this year since moving to Marseille. I started sharing my vision of football on Instagram and TikTok, and I’ve noticed that people really connect with my energy and perspective. In the summer of 2025, I was even invited to Olympique de Marseille’s first jersey launch, which was an amazing experience.
What does the current women’s football exposure mean to you?
I believe that even today, there are still challenges in how society accepts women in football. Too often, women are seen as less knowledgeable or not taken seriously, and I think that in 2025, this is something we really need to address.
What teams do you support?
SSC Napoli, the football team from my hometown. When I first started following them, they were in Serie B. I’m proud to have supported Napoli through both the difficult times and the great ones, including winning the championships in 2023 and 2025.
Football, fashion, travel? In that order? How do you blend them all together in your life?
I would say traveling comes first for me, as it has really allowed me to open my mind and discover new cultures. In every city I visit, I always make sure to stop by the stadium, because football is such an important part of my life. I see it as a passion that connects perfectly with fashion, which has been one of my hobbies since childhood. Fashion has also helped me overcome my weaknesses and my shyness, which I’m proud to have left behind. My hope is that one day I’ll be able to bring all three passions together.
You had photoshoots in more than two countries. Please elaborate on that.
I started doing photoshoots in Naples, Italy, when I was just 16 years old. At the beginning, it was mostly focused on fashion and beauty, and I really loved it because it helped me to open my mind, explore my creativity, and most importantly, gain confidence in myself. Later, when I moved to Marseille, France, my approach naturally changed. I immediately felt inspired by the city’s strong passion for football, which is everywhere in the culture and the streets. That’s why I started focusing more on sporty and streetwear projects—I wanted not only to reflect that energy but also to feel part of it.
The football creative industry is in a booming period. Where do you see it heading?
As I mentioned before, I believe that nowadays social media plays a really important role, especially in terms of how content spreads and how people react and engage with it. What I’ve noticed, particularly this year, is that many clubs are starting to connect football with fashion, and I really love this concept because I feel it reflects my own identity and the way I see the industry evolving.
What was the biggest obstacle in your career? How about your best moment?
One of the biggest challenges in my life came in recent years during my university studies. I went through a period of deep depression that didn’t allow me to fully enjoy my youth. Luckily, I found the strength to rise again, and life goes on. On the other hand, one of the most important moments in my life was definitely signing my very first work contract. That achievement rewarded all the sacrifices I had made, and I will always be grateful for it and proud of the person I’ve become.
Is football a way of life for you, or is there more than meets the eye?
I was born in a city where football is more than just a passion—it’s almost like a religion. I grew up in the place where Maradona played such an important role, and in fact, I lived right in the neighborhood where the “Diego Armando Maradona” stadium is located, which at the time was still called San Paolo. Today I feel lucky to live in Marseille, another city where football is just as important. The fans here give me chills—I never imagined I would experience such emotions again.
Do you believe football is a biased sport? If yes, how do you see it changing for the better?
Football is known all over the world, even in the smallest villages. It’s a sport that gives everyone, even the less fortunate, the chance to just pick up a ball and enjoy themselves, either alone or with friends. I believe football owes much of its global importance to legendary figures like Maradona and Pelé. I wouldn’t say it’s an “overrated” sport—maybe it has been a bit luckier than others, but that’s part of life’s challenges. What really matters is how much joy it brings to the fans.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m not the kind of person who likes to plan every detail of the future—so far, whenever I tried, life had other plans for me, haha. What matters most to me is staying healthy, being surrounded by people who are proud of me, and having their support as I follow my path. My dream is that this passion for football, for a woman born in the south of Italy, can grow into something greater and eventually turn into a real career. I believe that with dedication and authenticity, even the smallest dream can become something extraordinary.
