Football clubs often look to their history for design inspiration, but Manchester City has taken a notable step back in time for their new 2025-26 away kit.
The kit draws from the club’s origins, dating back to 1884, where it represents the first uniform ever worn by the team.
Founded in 1880 by two church guards aiming to mitigate youth aggression through sports, the team started as West Gorton FC of St. Mark in Gorton, a suburb of East Manchester, just a short distance from the current Etihad Stadium.
St. Mark’s original kit featured a plain black design adorned solely with a white cross, reflecting its religious influences. A few years later, the team transitioned to the iconic Sky Blue and officially adopted the name Manchester City in 1894, maintaining a blue color scheme ever since.
This year, City is celebrating its roots in Gorton with a new away kit inspired by the black uniforms used by St. Mark during the club’s early history.
The contemporary version is entirely black, accented with metallic silver trim for a modern twist, instead of the traditional white.
Key players such as Manuel Akanji, Alex Greenwood, Jess Park, and Vitre Reis have modeled the kit, though the dark tones of the photo shoot may make it hard to distinguish between their features.
After the club previously revealed a uniquely designed sash kit for the FIFA Club World Cup in partnership with New York Streetwear brand Kid Super, City’s upcoming away kit presents a notably understated style.
Fan Take: This unveiling is significant for soccer enthusiasts as it reconnects the club to its historical roots, generating pride among long-time supporters. The blend of tradition and modern design enhances the identity of Manchester City, showcasing how the sport can evolve while honoring its legacy.
