Louis Tomlinson’s interview, transcribed from the SOCCER AID FOR UNICEF OFFICIAL 2025 SOUVENIR PROGRAMME
Are you excited to be back at Soccer Aid for UNICEF?
Yeah, I’m very, very excited. I think it’s been about nine years-ish since I last played, so yeah, very, very excited to get back out on the pitch again.
How important is Soccer Aid for UNICEF for you?
I think Soccer Aid for UNICEF is really, really important for me, especially as a football fan but also as a parent who wants to see good things done for all the kids out there that might need it. It’s just a beautiful thing to be involved in, really.
What would you say is more nerve-racking, walking out at Soccer Aid, or singing in front of thousands of people?
One thousand percent, walking out at Soccer Aid. There’s absolutely no doubt about that. Why? I suppose it’s because you know singing is the day job; once you kind of get into the swing of it. I still get a little bit nervous for that, but also as a football fan, you really want to be seen as a good player, that’s the bottom line.
Do you think you’re a good football player?
I’ve always said that I was blessed because I was put in a band with three or four lads who couldn’t really play very well so it always made me look really good. Am I a good player? I’d say I’m alright!
Are there any certain skills you’ll be implementing into the game this year?
I’m actually quite a physical player. But listen, I’m not going to go out of my way to get a bit silly with it, but I’ve noticed everyone pays the pros a hell of a lot of respect and I kind of like to get a bit physical when there’s an opportunity. I like to take my moment.
Obviously, you’re a big music fan as well as being an artist; are there any particular songs you’ll be adding to the dressing room playlist or a preach playlist?
I’ve really never been in that situation before. Instinctively, I’ve not listened to much of the new Sam Fender record yet but I think that feels like it could be appropriate. Something hopeful, big and fun.
Which of your fellow musicians or artists that you look up to do you think would be a good addition to Soccer Aid?
That’s a good question, I don’t really know. Bring over someone from America who thinks they know about it, let’s try that! [laughs]
Are you confident in an England win?
I’m very confident in an England win, I was last time. I’m the kind of guy that will believe it to the end, so yeah, we will win.
I’m going to say, now has there ever been a clean sheet in the history of Soccer Aid?! I’m going to say, I reckon it’s going to be 4-2 to England. Goalscorers? A hat-trick for myself and then maybe [Paddy] McGuinness from the corner!”
