Manchester City recently revealed their new away kit for the upcoming 2024-25 Premier League season, and it is a design that harkens back to a bygone era. The ultra-bright yellow and navy blue stripes pay homage to the jersey worn during the 1998-99 season. At that time, City was far from the powerhouse we see today, languishing in the third tier of English football while local rivals Manchester United were busy dominating the landscape.
While the fluorescent colors may have been considered garish back in 1998, the kit has since gained cult status among City fans. The original jersey from 25 years ago can still be spotted in the stands at the Etihad Stadium, showcasing its enduring appeal. The 2024-25 version by Puma stays true to the original design, with the lively color combination and thin sky blue borders remaining intact.
The 1998-99 season holds a special place in the hearts of City supporters, particularly due to a memorable playoff final at Wembley. Despite being 2-0 down with just minutes remaining, City staged a remarkable comeback, ultimately earning promotion back to the First Division. The dramatic match, which ended in a penalty shootout victory, has become part of the club’s folklore and is commemorated through the new kit.
This is not the first time that Manchester City has revisited the neon and navy color scheme. In 2018-19, they released an away shirt featuring similar design elements to mark the 20th anniversary of their historic playoff victory. By paying homage to such a pivotal moment in the club’s history, City continues to celebrate its journey from adversity to triumph.
As Manchester City embarks on another season filled with high expectations and aspirations for success, the unveiling of the retro-inspired away kit serves as a reminder of the club’s rich heritage. While the colors and stripes may evoke nostalgia for longtime fans, they also symbolize the resilience and determination that have defined City’s evolution into a dominant force in English football.
The new away kit for the 2024-25 season is more than just a uniform – it is a representation of Manchester City’s enduring spirit and commitment to honoring its past. As fans eagerly await the start of the new campaign, they can take pride in wearing a jersey that not only reflects the club’s history but also points towards a bright future filled with potential and promise.