Manchester United’s new Nike third kit has been inspired by the success of 1968, when the Reds wore blue while becoming the first English team to lift the European Cup.
To celebrate 40 years since that momentous night, Nike has created a new kit worthy of that great team and their famous 4-1 win over Benfica at Wembley. The new blue shirt includes a number of details that commemorate the achievement including the embroidery of the words ‘May 29th 1968′ and ‘40th Year Anniversary’ around the crest.
United captain Gary Neville said: “I think it’s fantastic, I like the traditional kits. I think we should wear kits that represent the history of the club and this one certainly does that.
“I think you will think about that night and that team when you wear this kit, particularly with the embroidery of the date around the badge. The fans will love it.”
Rio Ferdinand said: “When you look at the final image you will associate it with the great team of 1968 with the likes of George Best and Bobby Charlton.
“Obviously they won the European Cup in blue so we hope we can walk in their shoes again with this kit. It’s such a big part of the history of the club.”
Wayne Rooney added: “It’s a nice kit. It’s been designed to celebrate 40 years since the European Cup win so it’s great to have a kit that remembers that team.
“When you come to a club like United, the history of the club is something that is important for new players to understand. It’s different to go out in blue but it’s all part of the club’s history and I think that’s important.”
“This club has a great history. We respect the legends and it’s great for us to put a shirt on that remembers a great team. I think it’s beautiful,” added Cristiano Ronaldo.
Manchester United legend, Ryan Giggs stated “I’m very impressed. It’s great to have a kit to celebrate 40 years since that amazing night. For it to look so good and be the same colour as the kit from 1968 is a testimony to the designers.”
