Football may be a 90-minute game, but for today’s top players, the real magic often happens beyond the pitch. The modern footballer is somewhat of a renaissance man, one day, he’s orchestrating play under stadium floodlights; the next, he’s sitting front row at Fashion Week, laying down tracks in the studio, or making big business moves in the boardroom. The sport has evolved into a global stage where players are encouraged to embrace their full selves, unapologetically. The beautiful game is now providing a safe space for authenticity as players are pursuing their passions, all while giving us something to celebrate when they represent their respective teams.
And few embody this as effortlessly as Daniel-Kofi Kyereh. Week in and out, Kofi applies his trade, operating as an attacking midfielder for Bundesliga club SC Freiburg and the Ghanian National team. Born in Accra to a Ghanaian father and a German mother, Kyereh carries both cultures with pride, shaping his unique identity both as a player and as a person. While he makes defenders sweat in the Bundesliga, he’s also making serious moves in the business world. Kyereh is the co-founder of Play The Game GmbH, a Hamburg-based agency designed to help footballers craft their own narratives and build personal brands that go beyond post-match interviews.
“Just as I pour my heart into my performance on the pitch, my style is a way to express creativity, confidence, and individuality off the field,” he said, styled in an edgy Daily Paper denim outfit. And he means it. Fashion, business, and football all blend seamlessly in Kyereh’s world.
In an exclusive sit-down with Rolling Stone Africa, Kyereh talks about his heritage, his journey in football, and what it really means to live authentically in a world that often asks athletes to stay in their lane.
Rolling Stone Africa: What has it meant to you personally and professionally to represent Ghana on the international stage?
Kofi Kyereh: Representing Ghana on the international stage has been one of the most humbling and transformative experiences of my life. Personally, it’s about carrying the legacy and dreams of my family and community every time I step onto the pitch. Professionally, it’s a reminder of the hard work and sacrifices that have paved my journey—an opportunity to test myself against the best in the world while staying true to my roots.
Rolling Stone Africa: Can you share some of the most memorable moments from playing for your country?
Kofi Kyereh: Some of my most memorable moments playing for Ghana are etched in my heart forever. I vividly recall the electrifying atmosphere in the stadium during a crucial qualifier—a moment when the roar of the crowd felt like a powerful force, lifting us all as one united team. Every cheer, every drumbeat resonated deeply with my identity and reminded me why I fight on the field. These moments aren’t just about winning matches; they’re about the shared passion and pride that connects every Ghanaian around the globe.
Rolling Stone Africa: With your dual German/Ghanaian heritage, how do you balance and celebrate both cultures?
Kofi Kyereh: Having a dual German/Ghanaian heritage has given me the best of both worlds. I celebrate this beautiful blend by embracing the discipline, efficiency, and structure I learned growing up in Germany, alongside the warmth, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of Ghana. I make it a point to honor both cultures—whether it’s through traditional celebrations, family gatherings, or even the way I approach training and competition. It’s this fusion that shapes my outlook on life and the way I perform on and off the pitch.
Rolling Stone Africa: What aspects of your Ghanaian roots do you cherish the most, and how do they influence your identity both on and off the pitch?
Kofi Kyereh: My Ghanaian roots are a treasure trove of values that I hold dear. The sense of community, the joy in our music and art, and the deep connection to our history all influence who I am. They remind me to stay grounded and humble, no matter how high I climb. Off the field, these roots inspire me to give back, to support young talent, and to always remember where I came from.
Rolling Stone Africa: How did it feel to play against your idol, Neymar Jr.?
Kofi Kyereh: Playing against my idol, Neymar Jr., was nothing short of surreal. The experience was a blend of excitement, respect, and a little bit of nervous energy. Facing someone whose skills and flair I’ve admired for years pushed me to elevate my own game. It was a respectful duel on the field—a reminder that even our heroes are human, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn.
Rolling Stone Africa: Why is expressing your personal style through fashion so important to you?
Kofi Kyereh: Expressing my personal style through fashion is incredibly important to me because it’s another medium to communicate who I am. Just as I pour my heart into my performance on the pitch, my style is a way to express creativity, confidence, and individuality off the field. Fashion has always been a part of my personality, but over time it has evolved into a form of self-expression that tells my story—one that’s as dynamic and multifaceted as my career.
Rolling Stone Africa: Can you tell us what inspired you and your best friend, Emmanuel Whajah, to start Play The Game GmbH?
Kofi Kyereh: My best friend and I were inspired to start Play The Game GmbH out of a shared vision. We saw an opportunity to bridge the worlds of sports and lifestyle, creating a platform that champions both athletic excellence and creative expression. Our goal with the company is to foster a community where sports, fashion, and entrepreneurship intersect, inspiring the next generation to break boundaries and redefine what it means to be an athlete in today’s world.
Rolling Stone Africa: What is it about football that you love the most, and how does that passion drive you every day?
Kofi Kyereh: At the heart of it, football is a love affair for me. What I love most is the spontaneity and artistry of the game—the way a simple touch of the ball can change the course of a match, how every game is a canvas where passion, strategy, and skill come together in real time. This passion fuels my daily drive, pushing me to train harder, play smarter, and always keep the joy of the game at the forefront.
Rolling Stone Africa: Music often plays a big role in an athlete’s routine. What songs are currently on your playlist, and how do they motivate you, both on and off the pitch?
Kofi Kyereh: Music, too, plays a huge role in my routine. My playlist is a mix of Afrobeat rhythms, hip-hop beats, and some global hits—tracks that pump me up before a match and help me unwind after a tough day. Songs like Burna Boy’s upbeat tunes, Wizkid’s smooth vibes, and even a few motivational tracks from international artists keep me in the zone, reminding me that rhythm and passion go hand in hand both on and off the pitch.
Rolling Stone Africa: What is your message for a young footballer or entrepreneur who wants to walk in your footsteps?
Kofi Kyereh: To any young footballer or aspiring entrepreneur looking to walk in my footsteps, I’d say this: embrace your uniqueness, work relentlessly, and always stay true to your roots. Success isn’t just about talent—it’s about determination, resilience, and the courage to take risks. Remember, every setback is a setup for a comeback. Keep pushing forward, stay inspired, and know that your journey is just as important as the destination.
Production Credits
Executive Producer: Emmanuel Whajah
Director: Emmanuel Whajah
DP: Lionel Sam
Model: Kofi Kyereh
Brand: Daily Paper
