Love Island All Stars contestant Montel McKenzie has officially confirmed his romantic relationship with Swiss international footballer Alisha Lehmann, often dubbed 'the world's sexiest footballer'. The semi-professional footballer and reality TV personality made the relationship public on Wednesday evening through a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating Alisha's birthday.
A Public Declaration of Affection
Montel shared a series of intimate photographs capturing the couple during a sun-drenched holiday at an undisclosed location. In the images, the pair appear deeply enamoured, exchanging a passionate kiss and beaming at one another with evident joy. Accompanying the snaps was a simple yet affectionate caption: 'Happy Birthday baby,' marking a definitive 'hard launch' of their romance to the public and their social media followers.
Connections Through the Baller League
The couple's paths first crossed through their involvement in KSI's Baller League, a prominent six-a-side football competition. Montel plays in the league, while Alisha co-manages a team alongside Love Island host Maya Jama. A source close to the situation revealed to The Sun that the romance 'hasn't been much of a secret within the Baller League set up,' noting that the pair hit it off immediately after meeting.
'They hit it off straight away have been going on dates afterwards,' the insider explained. 'Alisha has been flying him to her Como apartment for sneaky weekend breaks for a while now, I don't think Montel could believe his luck.' The source added that what began as a casual connection has since evolved into a more serious and committed relationship.
Celebrity Reactions and Past Relationships
News of the relationship was met with enthusiastic support from Montel's circle of Love Island friends. Fellow islander Sammy Root commented 'Happy for you brother,' while Nas Majeed exclaimed 'YEAHHH,' and Tyrique Hyde celebrated the 'HARD LAUNCH.'
The revelation follows Alisha's previous high-profile relationship with Brazilian footballer Douglas Luiz. The pair were together from 2021, initially while both played for Aston Villa, and briefly rekindled their romance in early 2024 amid transfers to Juventus. However, speculation about a split surfaced later, seemingly confirmed when Alisha attended Oktoberfest in Bavaria and wore her dirndl bow on the left side—a traditional signal of being single.
Montel's Recent Romantic History
For Montel, this new relationship comes after his last public romance with fellow Love Island All Stars contestant Kaz Crossley, whom he met during the 2025 series. Kaz confirmed their split in June of last year during an appearance on Love Island Aftersun, describing Montel as a 'very good friend,' a statement her friend Gabby Allen humorously qualified by adding 'With benefits!'
As Montel McKenzie and Alisha Lehmann step into the spotlight as a couple, their union blends the worlds of reality television and professional football, captivating fans and prompting widespread celebration among their peers.
