Manchester United unveil new throwback adidas collection revisiting look from 1988-90

A blast from the past! Man United and adidas unveil new throwback collection that revisits an iconic 1988-90 kit, while model pieces from Rashford and Shaw capture the spirit of Sir Alex Ferguson’s early years

  • Manchester United went through turbulent years in the late 1980s and early 1990s
  • However, they looked especially iconic on the field with a third stripe
  • United and adidas have released a line inspired by the early era of Sir Alex Ferguson

Manchester United plunged back into their history books after teaming up with adidas to release a throwback collection featuring iconic kits from 1988-90.

To celebrate the memorable look from the era when Sir Alex Ferguson’s unrivaled reign at Old Trafford kicked off, the clothing giants have created an almost identical reproduction of the blue third strip used for several seasons.

The ‘Man Utd x Originals’ line is designed to evoke a sense of match nostalgia and capture the atmosphere of challenging in the old First Division.

A nod to the design template of the times, the nine-piece collection offers a modern take on one of the club’s most cherished outfits. A hoodie, t-shirts and a bench jacket have also been revealed.

The centerpiece of the collection is the third sweater. The latest version, available from today, features a specially developed ‘MUFC’ jacquard material and a distinctive ribbed collar, complete with red and black detailing along the edges.

Manchester United and adidas have unveiled a collection inspired by the club’s 1988-90 look

A reproduction of the blue third strip from that era is available next to a benchjack (left)

A reproduction of the blue third strip from that era is available next to a benchjack (left)

The third kit stays true to the original (pictured above on Bryan Robson in late 1988)

The third kit stays true to the original (pictured above on Bryan Robson in late 1988)

Staying true to the beloved original, the adidas logo, club crest and larger sponsor iconography from the late ’80s have all been re-elevated, with a softly textured material applied to the woven fabric to create the effect.

Matching shorts emblazoned with ‘MUFC’ script on one side complete the outfit.

The collection also includes a bench jacket inspired by the elegant ensemble Sir Alex Ferguson typically wears on the sidelines. However, it has been recreated as a modern winter jacket, once again giving the nostalgia a contemporary touch.

A reinterpreted version of the off-pitch hoodie worn by the players is also available.

Adidas has insisted that every part of the collection pays homage to the original pieces, and United supporters may well salivate at the prospect of thinking back over three decades and reflecting on their club’s remarkable run .

Indeed, the period marked the start of their climb to the top of the top flight and culminated in an FA Cup triumph that likely saved Ferguson from the sack.

Ferguson then, of course, won 38 trophies in 26 glorious years at the club before stepping back in 2013 and being replaced by the ill-fated David Moyes.

Sir Alex Ferguson wore long coats during many of his glittering years at the helm of United

Sir Alex Ferguson wore long coats during many of his glittering years at the helm of United

Marcus Rashford models the modern version of the new jacket, released today

Marcus Rashford models the modern version of the new jacket, released today

An off-pitch hoodie worn by the players is in line, as worn by Lisandro Martinez

An off-pitch hoodie worn by the players is in line, as worn by Lisandro Martinez

This season, United are closing in on securing a place in the top four after a 2-0 win over Wolves, thanks to efforts from Anthony Martial and Alejandro Garnacho.

Young Garnacho was introduced off the bench in the 82nd minute, with United holding on to a one-goal lead and promptly scoring his fifth goal of the campaign.

In a post-match speech, boss Erik ten Hag described the striker as a “massive talent” and expressed hope that he will inspire confidence in the club’s crucial run-up.

“Garna scored a great goal and he was good for almost everything – that will give him faith,” said Ten Hag. “That’s good for us for the rest of the season.

“He’s back and he can make an impact and that will give him confidence.

‘One of the aspects of the greatest talents is that they take responsibility firstly and are matured secondly. They have the skills and belief that they can dominate opponents and again he did it.

“He has a big impact in many matches, both at the start and when coming on. He’s ready and straight into the game and that’s so important for the side to bring in young players.

“Hopefully he will make progress so quickly and he can compete for a starting place. That’s his challenge.’

Erik ten Hag praised Alejandro Garnacho after the youngster's great impact against Wolves

Erik ten Hag praised Alejandro Garnacho after the youngster’s great impact against Wolves

Striker Garnacho was brought off the bench late and scored United's second goal

Striker Garnacho was brought off the bench late and scored United’s second goal


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