Player Spotlight: Auston Trusty

Auston Trusty: Defining style on and off the pitch

Auston Trusty is a defender for Celtic FC and a key figure in the rising wave of American talent that is making its mark in European football. With a journey that began in Major League Soccer and took him to England’s Arsenal, Birmingham and Sheffield United, Trusty has gained a unique perspective on the game’s global landscape. Beyond his performance as a strong, composed centre-back, Trusty is passionate about the role fashion plays in the world of sports, both as a tool for self-expression and a means of connecting with fans on a deeper level.

In our conversation, Trusty shared how his experiences across continents have shaped his personal style, how football and fashion are becoming increasingly intertwined, and why he’s determined to inspire others both on and off the pitch. Whether it’s the cultural influences he’s adopted from living abroad or his other entrepreneurial pursuits off the pitch, Trusty’s insights reveal a player who sees style as an extension of his identity, his sport, and his mindset he brings to everything he does. 

On-Pitch? Redefining Centre-Back Stereotypes

As a centre-back, Trusty’s role traditionally demands a “no-nonsense” approach—to disrupt the opposition, to clear the ball out of dangerous areas and to be a formidable presence in duels. Yet he brings his own flair to this typically grounded position, starting with his choice of football boots. Instead of the traditional black, he opts for colourful or bright white cleats, adding what he calls “a bit of swagger” to his on-pitch presence.

“There’s a stereotype of how defenders should look,” he admits, “but adding my own twist with the boots gives me confidence.” Trusty finds that this personal touch adds an edge to his game, blending functionality with style in a way that subtly sets him apart.

Off-Pitch? Comfortable Without Compromise & Contemporary Minimalism

Trusty’s off-duty style prioritises comfort but isn’t without its statements. Given his travel-heavy schedule for training and games, he usually opts for relaxed fits that allow him to focus on performance. “I dress for the occasion but aim for comfort since I’m always on the go,” he shares. His go-to style pieces are sneakers, which he uses to make a quiet statement even in laid-back outfits. He’s not one to craft elaborate game-day outfits; instead, he lets his footwear “do the talking.”

This focus on comfort and functionality leads to Auston’s minimalist approach to styling his fits. It’s no wonder Auston’s favourite brand is London-based designer about:blank, which is centred on the ethos of contemporary minimalism. “About:blank has a special place in my heart,” Trusty adds, “I wore this about:blank set on one of the best days of my life when I proposed to my longtime girlfriend in Italy earlier this year in May. The photos from this day will live on forever.. So while the decision to ask my girlfriend to marry me was the big one, which outfit to wear was also a pretty big one,” Trusty added as he chuckled.

Cultural Threads Across the Pond

Having played in both the United States and Europe, Trusty has observed notable differences in football fashion culture. In the U.S., athletes often mirror the bold, streetwear-influenced style seen in the NBA and NFL, where athletes are cultural icons as much as they are sports figures. In Europe, however, footballers often reflect the style of their city, aiming to blend with local trends while maintaining a personal edge. For Trusty, adapting to new fashion environments is key. “I like to blend in with the local styles but also add my own touch which makes me stand out” he explains, describing how playing in different countries has broadened his style perspective and helped him blend in without losing his individuality.

Beyond the Pitch: Brand Building & Entrepreneurial Ventures

Already a Nike athlete, Trusty envisions expanding his presence beyond football. He sees brand partnerships as a way to inspire fans on and off the field, showcasing his sense of style and taste in an authentic way. While his Instagram is currently focused on football, he’s looking forward to adding more fashion-forward & day in the life content down the line to show the other side of the footballer we’ve come to know and love “It’s something I want to get into,” he says, “but for now, I just enjoy being in the moment and try not to interrupt it.” 

“For me, I’ve always enjoyed learning—I feel like this passion for learning and getting better every day has played a major role in enabling me to become the footballer I’ve grown to be,” Trusty added as he began to delve into his entrepreneurial life off the pitch. 

When he’s not playing football, you can likely find Auston supporting the founders and businesses he’s invested in across the Technology, Media, and Consumer Goods sectors. “There are a lot of parallels to sport and business, and I feel lucky to be in a privileged enough position to invest in promising companies I’m aligned with. Take Olipop for instance... I loved their product, found a way to get a meeting with the CEO, and eventually got the opportunity to join an earlier investment round given this unique perspective I bring.” 

Dress the Part, Play the Part

Trusty sees the fashion-football crossover as a way for athletes to express themselves beyond the game. He resonates with the “dress good, feel good, play good” mantra, which encourages confidence and self-expression on and off the field. He especially admires the French national team’s pre-match arrival photos, which have become an iconic showcase of style, team spirit, and pride. He believes that clubs should encourage this culture, helping players present themselves authentically while also connecting with fans in a new way.

Bridging the Gap

For Trusty, collaborations between football clubs and fashion brands represent a significant cultural opportunity. He points to partnerships like AC Milan’s with OFF-WHITE as a model for success, noting that these collaborations create crossover appeal and additional revenue. “When clubs support these partnerships, it’s a win for both sides,” he says, adding that they allow players to express their personalities, bridging the gap between two influential worlds. Such partnerships, he feels, not only bring fans closer to their favourite players but also solidifies football’s role in fashion.

Auston Trusty’s approach to style is a powerful reminder that athletes today are more than their on-field stats. With influences spanning continents, he has crafted a style that reflects both his journey and his individuality. Whether on the pitch in bright white boots or off it in statement sneakers, Trusty’s style philosophy balances comfort with authenticity, blending the cultures he’s encountered along the way. As he continues to build his legacy, his presence on and off the pitch is as dynamic and adaptable as his career—filled with statements of authenticity, cultural curiosity, and style on his own terms.