Adidas Celebrates 75th Anniversary with Iconic Third Kits for 2024/25


Adidas has made waves in the world of football fashion with the release of the 2024/25 third kits for some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs: Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Bayern Munich. The rollout has been a marketing masterclass, serving as both a celebration of Adidas’ heritage and a forward-looking vision for the future of football.


Reintroducing the Trefoil: a nostalgic return

The standout feature of this year’s third kits is the return of the iconic Adidas Trefoil logo. Originally reserved for Adidas Originals ranges, the Trefoil is returning to the pitch as part of the brand’s 75th-anniversary celebrations. This logo replaces the Three Stripes Performance logo on the jerseys, linking these clubs’ storied pasts with a modern aesthetic.

“The Trefoil stands for sporting elegance and authentic style, resonating with fans’ collective memory of football.”

Sam Handy - SVP of Product and Design at Adidas Football

Unique designs reflecting club DNA

Each club’s third kit is a unique blend of its historical identity and modern streetwear trends. The designs delve into the roots of each club’s culture, producing kits that are both fashion statements and sportswear.

The Arsenal third kit draws inspiration from the club’s 1994/95 away kit, with a bold design that blends a nostalgic color palette with a fresh, fashionable twist. The use of the Trefoil and the iconic cannon crest creates a vibrant look that resonates with Gooners worldwide.


 

Arsenal

 

Manchester United’s is a tribute to the club’s global fanbase. The red, white, and black tricolor flag, which symbolises unity among fans, is prominently displayed across the chest. The traditional club crest is replaced by the Red Devil emblem, offering a sleek and modern design.

 

Manchester United

 

Real Madrid’s kit marries timeless style with modern elegance. A dark grey color palette and an engineered “RMCF” monogram pattern combine with the Trefoil logo, creating a jersey that balances tradition with contemporary flair.

 

Real Madrid

 

Juventus’ is inspired by the night sky, featuring a starry night color palette of navy blue and gold. The design is accentuated by a polo collar and a gold silhouette of the Juventus zebra, replacing the traditional crest.

 

Juventus

 

Bayern Munich’s kit celebrates the club’s golden years with a red and white colour palette and a classic 1970s badge. A diamond graphic subtly ties the design to both the club’s DNA and Adidas heritage.

 

Bayern Munich

 

The Marketing Campaign: A Triumph in Storytelling

Adidas has paired these distinctive designs with a marketing campaign that is equally compelling. The campaign, led by cinematic videos and star-studded appearances, has captured the imagination of football fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.

 

Footy Headlines

 

They strategically incorporated club legends into the promotion of the new third kits, creating a deep connection between the past and present. Each campaign featured iconic players who have left a lasting legacy at their respective clubs, further anchoring the kits in the rich history and culture of the teams.


For example, Manchester United’s promotion included appearances by legendary figures such as Bryan Robson, Denis Irwin, and Jaap Stam, alongside current stars. Arsenal’s campaign similarly highlighted former players, bridging generations of Gunners. This use of club legends not only resonated with longtime fans but also added a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the marketing efforts, reinforcing the idea that these kits are more than just apparel—they are a tribute to the clubs’ storied histories.

 

Arsenal

 

Adidas created a compelling promotional narrative by celebrating the clubs’ rich histories alongside the vibrancy of their current teams. The campaigns captured the essence of each club’s legacy through stylish, retro-inspired designs, while also highlighting the contemporary flair of today’s players. This approach effectively blended nostalgia with modern excitement, showcasing the new kits as both a nod to the past and a fresh statement for the present.

 

Fans react

The reception on social media has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have lauded the return of the Trefoil logo, the nostalgic nods, and the fashion-forward designs. The buzz generated by the campaign videos has further amplified the excitement, with fans engaging in discussions, sharing their favorite moments, and expressing their anticipation to own these unique pieces of football history.

 

@odesaturne on X

 

Conclusion: a masterclass in football, fashion and marketing

Adidas’ release of the 2024/25 third kits for Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Bayern Munich is a significant moment in both football and fashion. By blending nostalgia with modern design, and pairing it with a compelling marketing campaign, Adidas has successfully captured the spirit of these iconic clubs while pushing the boundaries of what football kits can represent. This collection is not just about celebrating Adidas’ past 75 years but about setting the stage for the future of football apparel.


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Darcy Lloyd on August 16th, 2024