I’m Bradley Barcola, and if I had to define myself, I would say that I’m someone full of passion.
Football is my life, but it’s not just about that. It’s everything that comes with it: the culture, the inspirations, the dreams I carry with me in every match. My journey is made up of intense moments and small things that remind me why I love what I do.
A Passion That Comes from Far Away
“Why Japan?” I get asked that question a lot, especially when people see my tattoos. The answer is simple: it comes from the mangas and animes I used to watch when I was younger. Those stories, those characters, they always inspired me. It even made me want to get tattoos of references on my arms. For me, it’s a way to carry those inspirations with me, wherever I go.
And no, I haven’t been to Japan yet. Not because I don’t want to! But the timing has never been right. Maybe one day with PSG, on a tour? Fingers crossed.
The Blue Jersey: A Dream Come True
“Wearing the French national team jersey, what does that represent to you?”
It’s an immense pride. I had the chance to play with the U19s and the U21s, but now… now it’s the senior team. Representing France at this level is a childhood dream come true.
“When Didier Deschamps called me, I wasn’t expecting it. Honestly, I didn’t even think I’d be on the list. But when I saw my name… it was pure joy. My whole family was proud, and that’s priceless.”
A Number Like No Other
“Why number 29?”
It’s actually a funny story. When I was younger, I used to play FIFA. In the story mode with Alex Hunter, this number became symbolic for me. I thought to myself: “The day I go pro, it’ll be number 29.” And here I am, I adopted it, and now I’ll never let it go.
A Celebration with Meaning
Every player has their own way of celebrating, and for me, it’s by pointing my fingers to the sky.
“I thank God for everything He’s given me. It’s my way of paying homage to Him every time I score.”
Then there was that match against Marseille at the Vélodrome. I had already planned to do the Matuidi Charo celebration. The night before, I was watching videos of his old matches, and I told myself: “If I score tomorrow, I’ll do this.” And when I scored, it was instinctive. Doing it in front of a packed Vélodrome… magical.
The Barcola Universe
When we created this special ball, I wanted it to reflect who I am. The Japanese universe, the clouds, the manga style… It’s everything I love. Even my celebration is represented on it.
“It’s crazy because it feels like it’s 100% me. This ball is a mix of my passions and my identity on the field. That’s why I love it.”
"The Future is Now"
On one of my trading cards, it says “The future is now.”
It sums up my situation well. I’m young, but things are moving fast.
“For me, the goal is simple: always progress, match after match. I don’t overthink it, I give everything on the field, and the rest will follow.”
"To my supporters, to those who follow me: thank you. You are a source of strength. Whether it’s at the Parc des Princes or during training, your support is exceptional."
"And to everyone who believes in me, I promise you one thing: this is only the beginning."
