Robbie Williams branded 'unrecognisable' as fans go wild for star's new look


Soccer Aid returned with a bang on Sunday night, 9 June, as Robbie Williams led stars onto the pitch at Stamford Bridge. The charity football extravaganza, which has been a highlight since 2006, aims to score big for UNICEF, having already netted a staggering £90 million to support vital work in countries like Cambodia.

The England squad boasted big names including Robbie, 50, Paddy McGuinness, Erin Doherty, Danny Dyer, and Bobby Brazier. Meanwhile, the World XI team was just as glittering, with Roman Kemp, Usain Bolt, Tommy Fury, Martin Compston, and Lee Mack lacing up their boots.

During the match, Robbie's transformation had fans doing a double-take as he rocked a suave grey mohawk and chic black specs, all while donning a sharp blue suit. Social media lit up with comments about his dapper new style, reports the Mirror.

Fans were tweeting up a storm, with one saying: "Robbie Williams looks so different these days. I wouldn't have recognised him if it wasn't #socceraid", while another complimented: "Robbie really suits the grey hair. #socceraid #robbiewilliams".

Soccer Aid was back for another year on Sunday night with Robbie Williams leading the stars
Robbie Williams was branded 'unrecognisable' as Soccer Aid viewers went wild for star's 'new look' -Credit:Mirror
Soccer Aid was back for another year on Sunday night with Robbie Williams leading the stars
Robbie Williams during Soccer Aid For UNICEF 2024 at Stamford Bridge on June 9, 2024 in London, England -Credit:Mike Marsland/WireImage

Other struggled to recognise him, with one saying: "Only just twigged that bloke with the glasses is Robbie Williams #SoccerAid." while some admired his look: "Ooo Robbie Williams looking gorgeous in glasses! #SoccerAid."

Soccer Aid was presented by UNICEF UK ambassador Dermot O'Leary and Alex Scott. Sam Matterface was the commentator, while Love Island's voiceover star Iain Stirling took on co-commentary duties.

This year, Made in Chelsea's Sam Thompson, EastEnders actor Bobby, 21, and The Crown actress Erin, 31, made their first appearances on the England team. Since its inception in 2006, England has claimed victory five times, with their last win in 2018.

The Soccer Aid World XI team has triumphed seven times, and last year they clinched the championship title for the fifth consecutive year.

The Let Me Entertain You hitmaker was seen sporting a grey mohawk-style hairdo and stylish black glasses
Robbie Williams rocked a suave grey mohawk and chic black specs, all while donning a sharp blue suit -Credit:Mike Marsland/WireImage
Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2024 at Stamford Bridge on June 09, 2024 in London, England
Joe Cole of England celebrates scoring his team's first goal during Soccer Aid -Credit:Getty Images

But, for the first time since 2018, it was a successful night for the England team who ended up taking the trophy after a stunning 5-3 victory, which saw Usain Bolt stretchered off the pitch in the final minutes of the game.

Since 2006, the event has raised an impressive £90 million for charity. This year alone, it managed to raise a further £15 million, taking the total raised to £105 million. Funds raised from the event will aid UNICEF in protecting children from diseases and malnutrition, supporting their mental health, and providing assistance during crises in war-torn countries.