All eyes will be fixed on Anfield tonight as the highly anticipated Merseyside Derby unfolds, with both Liverpool and Everton seeking to make their mark, especially under the new leadership. Darwin Nunez is set to steal the spotlight with a specially crafted pair of boots for the occasion, courtesy of artist Jordan Dawson.

The customization of boots serves as one of the rare avenues for players to exhibit their personalities on the field. While signature editions remain exclusive to the elite, bespoke customizations offer a personalized touch. Jordan Dawson has emerged as a prominent figure in this domain, having tailored boots for notable figures such as Declan Rice, Son Heung-Min, and Marcus Rashford, among others. His latest endeavor involves creating a unique pair of Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superfly IX for Liverpool’s Uruguayan striker, Darwin Nunez, using the ‘Shadow Pack’ version as the foundation before adding his distinctive detailing. We sat down with Jordan to delve into the intricacies of his craft, from inception to completion, and gain insights into his broader body of work.

Initially, could you share how you ventured into this field?

My journey into footwear customization began with renowned brands like Nike, Converse, and PUMA. Subsequently, I was invited by EA Sports to customize adidas sneakers at their FIFA 20 Launch Party, where I collaborated with icons such as Kaká, Ian Wright, and Hudson-Odoi. The transition to football boots commenced when I approached Declan Rice during the event, proposing a custom design for him. His positive reception and subsequent social media endorsement sparked a chain reaction, leading to further opportunities in this realm.

How did the opportunity to create custom boots for Darwin Nunez arise?

Much of my recent work has been through referrals, but this particular project for Darwin Nunez stemmed from RareBoots4U. Cam and I had been in discussions about collaborating for some time. Following my design for Heung-Min Son, the opportunity to work with Darwin presented itself as he expressed interest in acquiring a bespoke pair.

Could you walk us through the process of customizing boots for a player, from inception to delivery?

Typically, I initiate communication with the player to determine which boot model they prefer. Once the boots are dispatched to my studio, we engage in discussions to ascertain their design preferences. Upon reaching a consensus, I schedule a customization session and proceed to prepare and paint the boots accordingly. Throughout the process, I provide updates to the player, allowing them to witness the evolution of their design. Upon completion, the boots are sealed to preserve the artwork and presented to the player, often accompanied by branded packaging, ready for their use on the pitch.

To what extent do athletes contribute to the creative process, and do some exhibit more involvement than others?

The degree of involvement varies among players. While some entrust me with complete creative freedom, others may have a specific design in mind or draw inspiration from my previous work. I typically present mock-ups to players, enabling them to visualize the final design before proceeding with the customization.

Are there any limitations regarding the types of boots you can personalize? Would you say white boots are the most suitable?

While white boots are preferred for customization, I’ve adapted to working with various base colors, as dictated by the player’s preferences. I’ve even altered the base color entirely to align with the player’s vision. Additionally, I design motifs that complement the boot color, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.

Of all the projects you’ve undertaken thus far, which stands out as your favorite?

Several projects have left a lasting impression, but two, in particular, come to mind. Firstly, as a Chelsea fan, creating custom boots for Mason Mount holds special significance. Secondly, collaborating with Chelsea FC to customize a special edition pair in honor of Nike Air Max Day was an unforgettable experience.

Who has been the most enjoyable player to collaborate with?

While I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous high-profile footballers, Declan Rice and Mason Mount left a profound impression on me due to their down-to-earth nature and warm hospitality. They’re truly remarkable individuals.

What’s the gratification like when you see these superstar athletes sporting your creations, especially if they score while wearing them?

Witnessing my designs come to life on the field is an unparalleled feeling. The opportunity to observe footballers showcase my boots during gameplay is incredibly rewarding. Undoubtedly, witnessing a player score while wearing my custom boots adds an extra layer of fulfillment.

On average, how long does it take to complete a project like the one for Darwin Nunez?

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the design, but typically spans around three days of work.

Your Instagram account showcases an impressive portfolio of clients. Who would be your dream player to collaborate with, and do you have any design ideas in mind for their boots?

Without a doubt, collaborating with Lionel Messi would be a dream come true. I envision creating a limited-edition pair commemorating his illustrious career and myriad achievements.

Is there a scenario where you would decline to work with a player?

I don’t foresee any circumstances under which I would decline to design boots for a player. I’m open to collaborating with anyone who expresses interest in my work.

Beyond football, you’ve worked with athletes such as Anthony Joshua and Usain Bolt. Are there any other non-football athletes on your wish list?

While I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with esteemed athletes like Anthony Joshua and Usain Bolt, I aspire to work with iconic figures such as LeBron James or Tom Brady outside the realm of football.