adidas is calling it “a visually distinctive design”, while the internet has labelled it the “worst kit ever”.
Football giant Manchester United has this week unveiled its ‘third kit’, with the help of its sponsor adidas.
The ‘third kit’, otherwise known as the alternate jersey, are commonplace in European football and are mainly used when there is a colour clash.
However, in recent years, these jerseys have become a valued piece of merchandise for clubs as they look to drive up sales.
While these shirts often include bold colours and designs, the latest Manchester United third kit could be the most extravagant yet.
“adidas and Manchester United today present the new 2020/21 season third kit, introducing a visually distinctive design, inspired by striped jerseys from the club’s history,” the club said in a statement.
“From United’s first striped kit over 100 years ago, to the eye-catching designs of the 1970s and 80s, the latest release aims to provide a fresh update to tradition, while delivering a vibrant new print.
“To create this new design, adidas re-drew, hacked and re-imagined combined elements from various jerseys throughout the club’s long history to create a bold new pattern. Utilising United’s iconic club colours of red, white and black, the kit is an original story with a modern update.”
While footballing purists might appreciate the acknowledgement of the club’s rich history, not every is impressed by the design.
As can be expected with these things, the third kit has caused quite the stir on social media.
The black and white strips has led many to compare the jersey to a zebra.
“It’s like a zebra crossing loads of teams will walk all over Man United this season,” said one social media user.
https://twitter.com/Destinyfejiro/status/1303295893739798528
Others have been more blunt in their assessment of it.
🤢🤮 What in a shit of a jersey is that. I mean who does that? But Addidas why? And Who at Manchester United approved this. Seriously, questions need to be asked. 🦓🏁❌
— 𝗟'𝗖𝘆𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲™ (@LCyNote) September 7, 2020
https://twitter.com/Labomimichael/status/1303242096544018433
