In the lead-up to Wednesday’s North London Derby, Google Pixel have released a new advert featuring Sol Campbell.
The former England defender, whose infamous move from Tottenham to Arsenal shocked the football world in 2001, is the face of a campaign encouraging people to make a switch of their own—to the Google Pixel 9.
Sol Campbell Ribs Tottenham in Google Pixel Advert
Produced by Google Creative Labs, the video plays on Campbell’s famous decision to leave Spurs for their biggest rivals.
Ribbing Tottenham, Campbell reflects on shaking off old allegiances and embracing something “much, much better” in life—mirroring the benefits of switching to the Google Pixel 9.
The ad features cheeky nods to Campbell’s career-defining moment, including changing from a white jumper to a red jumper.
When it comes to big moves, there’s only one man who knows what’s what.
Switch like Sol this transfer window and save big on Pixel devices in the Google Store: https://t.co/Gu32cX23Bf pic.twitter.com/EGtb3Zb4cm
— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) January 14, 2025
Towards the end of the advert, Campbell says, “Of course, you could stay with them for another year, but is anything really gonna change? It doesn’t look like it to me.
“So if you’re thinking about a transfer this January, I say go for it!”
It all leads up to Campbell’s reveal: switching to the Google Pixel 9 is a move worth making.
Google Tapping into the Transfer Window Drama
Eileen Mannion, Google UK’s Vice President of Marketing, explained why the timing of the ad is perfect, saying, “The January transfer window is an iconic moment in the football calendar, and we’re thrilled to partner with Sol Campbell to bring even more fun and excitement to fans ahead of the North London Derby.
“Just like Sol defied expectations in his career during this transfer window, there’s never been a better time for fans to make their own bold move to Google Pixel and experience the best of Google AI.”
Fan Reactions and North London Derby Anticipation
The timing of the campaign, just ahead of the North London Derby, is sure to resonate with Arsenal fans, who shared their reactions on social media.
Yeah, this is already the advert of 2025. pic.twitter.com/uagSvfNFjj
— Charles Watts (@charles_watts) January 14, 2025
Outrageous shithousery from Sol Campbell. pic.twitter.com/r4Ltr6fSIy
— HLTCO (@HLTCO) January 14, 2025