During the 2023 Glastonbury Festival, Manchester rapper Aitch surprised fans by stepping onto the Pyramid Stage wearing Manchester United's new Adidas home shirt. Known for being a passionate United supporter, Aitch gave festival-goers a first look at the yet-to-be-released kit.
This unplanned reveal caught the attention of both music lovers and football fans around the world. Aitch’s bold move turned his Glastonbury performance into a special moment for Manchester United fans.
A Closer Look at the Shirt Design
The 2023/24 Manchester United home shirt, created by Adidas, features a classic red color with a unique twist. The jersey includes a subtle geometric pattern inspired by the Lancashire red rose, symbolizing Manchester's local pride.
It also features a striped crew neck collar in red, white, and black, along with black Adidas stripes on the shoulders. The back of Aitch’s shirt was customized with “Big Shell” and the number 40 — a personal reference from the rapper’s music.
Inspired by Manchester’s History
The shirt’s design draws inspiration from Manchester’s rich industrial heritage, specifically a bridge over the River Irwell that connects Manchester and Salford. The red rose pattern represents unity, culture, and the strength of the local community.
Adidas and Manchester United have made this kit not just about football, but also about the city’s identity and the bond shared with its fans.
Reaction from Manchester United
Shortly after the performance, Manchester United acknowledged the early reveal. The club said in a statement:
“Our new home kit was seen for the first time on Saturday when lifelong United fan and Manchester native Aitch wore it proudly during his acclaimed performance on Glastonbury’s legendary Pyramid Stage.”
The official release of the new home kit followed shortly after, on June 27, 2023.
Football and Music Collide at Glastonbury
Glastonbury has long been a place where music and fashion mix freely, and football shirts have become a popular festival fashion choice. From vintage kits to modern designs, festival-goers often wear football shirts as a way to express their personality and passions.
Aitch’s reveal of the Adidas Manchester United kit was a perfect example of how football culture is becoming more visible in music festivals and youth fashion.
Where to Buy the Shirt
The 2023/24 Manchester United home kit by Adidas is now available on the official Adidas and Manchester United websites, as well as in retail stores. Fans can purchase the shirt in various sizes, including a custom option to add their name or favorite player’s name to the back.
Image Source: NME