PREMIER LEAGUE
Why are Manchester United players using replica kits during Premier League and UCL games?
The Red Devils have been sponsored by Adidas since 2015 but several players have complained about this season’s attire.
Things haven’t been going great for Manchester United this season and it turns out it’s not just their poor results that have been stifling them. Following their 3-0 derby defeat at home to Manchester City, which heaped more pressure on manager Erik Ten Hag, British newspaper Daily Mail revealed one reason why the Red Devils haven’t looked as comfortable out on the field as we might expect.
United’s jerseys and socks “too tight”
“Manchester United players are wearing replica items of kit during matches as the Adidas gear is too tight for them. Adidas are looking into a solution after complaints from some of United’s stars.”
While some players have had issues with their jerseys, others have “complained to Ten Hag and the club’s kit staff that the socks are too tight on their calves,” with certain members of the roster having not worn the official home socks since the second game of the season.
André Onana uncomfortable in goal
One man who appears to have been especially affected is goalkeeper André Onana. Last year, when David de Gea was between the sticks, there were complaints that the kit was too baggy. Now, the Cameroonian, who has a bigger frame than his predecessor, feels the adjustments made for him haven’t quite worked out. Following the 2-1 win over Sheffield United, Onana asked to change his jersey for a looser one.
Aston Villa’s “wet-look” jersey
The Red Devils aren’t the first Premier League team to be unhappy with their kits this season. A little over a month ago, Aston Villa players voiced their displeasure with their “wet-look” jersey, which were retaining sweat and sticking to players during games, with sources telling The Telegraph they were “heavy and uncomfortable”.