How To Choose The Best Retro Football Shirts

Football shirts are now available at MySavingBrand. Another season is beginning with promise, much like the shining surface of Guardiola’s genius-level skull. Now is the perfect time to dust off your old football shirt collection. A staple of any fan’s wardrobe, they are to be worn confidently on any occasion, regardless of the dress code. From Wembley to your nephew’s christening, there’s no situation that isn’t enhanced by the presence of a super fan sporting the iconic look of Zidane in his beloved 1998 France World Cup kit. Beyond the tribal connection of football, retro football shirts are, first and foremost, menswear statements. So, if your wardrobe resembles the equivalent of Tottenham’s trophy cabinet, it’s time to make a change.

We’ve selected the most iconic retro football kits and shirts from the modern era, featuring Totti’s elegant 2002 Italy kit, Ruud Gullit’s commanding presence in his classic Netherlands jersey, and Nintendo’s unexpected sponsorship of Fiorentina. These shirts capture the essence of championship-winning style from European and international teams. Join us on a nostalgic journey through football’s most memorable moments in history.

Where Can You Buy Classic Retro Football Shirts?

Vintage sports kits are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The classic ’90s look of oversized football shirts paired with snug shorts is the epitome of bold fashion choices, and yet, we can’t resist packing our AC Milan shirt for a beach trip to the Amalfi Coast, even if it leaves our partner slightly embarrassed.

Fortunately, there are plenty of places to purchase these iconic kits and shirts. You can start by going directly to the sports brands that created them, such as Nike, Adidas, or Umbro, where you can find authentic replica vintage kits from both past and present. Additionally, there are several dedicated retro football shirt websites like vintagefootballshirts.com, cultkits.com, retrofootballkits.co.uk, and toffs.com that offer a wide selection of top European, international, and pre-Premier League jerseys to enhance your collection.

If those options don’t work out, reliable sports retailers like Sports Direct and JD Sports are great alternatives. The trend has grown so much that even well-known fashion brands are getting involved, with Percival, a GQ favorite, collaborating with Umbro to recreate the vibrant, clashing colors of the mid-’90s.

What Is The Most Popular Football Shirt?

The answer to this question really depends on your age and which era of football stirs up the most nostalgia for you. For some, the heartbreak of Italia 90 still resonates, even after 30 years. The image of a young Gazza making waves during the group stages, accompanied by the tune of “World in Motion,” has become an unforgettable part of their identity.

Those who appreciate classic styles might lean towards the minimalist elegance of 1980s AC Milan, reminiscing about an era when Maldini and Baresi were considered the toughest players around. On the other hand, newer fans might have a soft spot for more recent kits, like Spain’s 2010 World Cup final jersey—minus the infamous Xabi Alonso incident.

No matter your age, preferences, or football allegiance, the appeal of a vintage football shirt lies in its nostalgic color schemes, iconic football legends, and retro-inspired fashion. When it comes to choosing your favorite, there are no wrong answers.

What Is The Best Football Shirt Brand?

Spend any time in online football fan communities, and you’ll encounter passionate debates about this very topic. Long-established sports brands like Nike and Adidas have shaped the football shirt landscape since the early days of players like Ancelotti. While we might not be in the best position to determine which brand or sponsor is the ultimate choice, we recommend selecting the one that best matches your personal style and preferences.

Check Out GQ’s Pick Of The Best Retro Football Shirts

England 90’s Third Shirt

It had to be Euro ’92, didn’t it? The tournament may not have been England’s finest moment, but this striking sky-blue third away shirt is unforgettable. With its unique geometric pattern and bold red accents, it remains an iconic piece of football nostalgia. Though England’s journey was cut short, this retro shirt, often worn by football fans today, still carries the spirit of that era, reminding us of the flair and unpredictability of English football in the early ’90s.

Arsenal 2002-2004 Henry

Arsenal may have clinched Premier League titles between 2002 and 2004, but the vibrant red ‘O2’ logo on this deep-red jersey remains unforgettable. Worn by the legendary Thierry Henry, along with other stars like Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires, and Sol Campbell, this shirt symbolizes a golden era for the Gunners

Inter Milan Retro Home Shirt Champions League Final Milito 22

No ultimate retro football shirt collection is complete without Inter Milan’s 2010 Champions League Final kit. The iconic black-and-blue stripes, paired with the legendary Pirelli sponsor, were worn by none other than Diego Milito as he led the Nerazzurri to victory. This shirt, with Milito’s famous number 22, remains a timeless piece of football history, symbolizing Inter’s unforgettable treble-winning season under José Mourinho.

Venezia Home Black 21-22 Long Sleeve Shirt

For a touch of modern elegance, Venezia’s 2021/2022 home kit is truly exceptional. The sleek black design, adorned with the club’s golden crest and subtle orange and green accents, exudes sophistication both on and off the pitch. While Venice may not be a football giant, this shirt’s refined style and long sleeve design make it a standout in any football fan’s wardrobe.

2010 Spain Away Jersey Final World Cup

In one of the most unforgettable World Cup finals, Andrés Iniesta secured Spain’s first-ever global triumph in 2010 while wearing this very jersey. The intense match, infamous for Nigel De Jong’s high kick to Xabi Alonso, ended in triumph for La Roja, with this deep navy shirt forever symbolizing their historic victory. Complete with a stitched star, this jersey serves as a timeless reminder of Spain’s rise to football greatness.

23/24 Fiorentina Third Away

The quality of a club’s sponsor can greatly influence the allure of a retro-inspired football shirt. Fiorentina’s 23/24 third away kit, with its bold design and sleek detailing, continues this proud tradition. While it may not boast a legendary brand like Nintendo, the eye-catching purple accents and modern aesthetic make it a standout piece. It’s a jersey that blends tradition with contemporary style—perfect for the discerning football fan and perhaps even Waluigi’s wardrobe.

AC Milan Home Retro Football Shirt 22-23

AC Milan’s 2022/23 season brings back memories of the club’s rich history, where brilliant football and timeless style were perfectly intertwined. This iconic red and black striped kit pays homage to the legends—Maldini, Baresi, Rijkaard, and Van Basten—who once dominated the European stage. While the Rossoneri continue to build on their legacy, this shirt serves as a modern tribute to their storied past, making it a must-have for any fan.

1986 Netherlands Home

Gullit, Rijkaard, Koeman—so many legendary names have graced the iconic Oranje kit throughout international tournaments. The bold, single-color design of the 1986 Netherlands home shirt has become synonymous with the brilliance of Dutch football. Though Euro 1988 often steals the spotlight, this kit serves as a reminder of the era that set the stage for Marco Van Basten’s unforgettable goal and the rise of Dutch football dominance.

1998 France Away

Les Bleus claimed their first World Cup title on home soil, making this kit a piece of football heritage. The deep French blue with a crisp white collar is as iconic as any retro shirt you can name. Wearing it, you join the ranks of legends like Henry, Zidane, Vieira, and Desailly—truly esteemed company.

Genoa Errea 90-91 Home

This vintage Genoa kit features a striking 50/50 vertical split with bold dark blue and red blocks contrasted by the white Mita sponsor. While the Griffin finished fourth that season, we’d argue that this kit has the look and feel of a championship winner.

Barcelona Final 10-11 Lionel Messi Away

While Pep Guardiola’s captaincy didn’t quite reach the heights of his managerial career, the club’s 2010-2011 away kit, worn by Lionel Messi during their triumphant Champions League run, remains one of the most iconic shirts in football history. The bold yellow design symbolizes a modern classic, marking an era of dominance under Guardiola’s leadership and Messi’s brilliance.

92-94 Roma Home Retro Football Shirt

The early ‘90s marked a resurgence for AS Roma, driven by the goal-scoring prowess of Balbo, Totti, and Fonseca. Serie A’s reputation for defensive mastery was contrasted by this stunning home kit, featuring Roma’s iconic deep red and bold orange accents. The classic design, with its clean lines and rich color palette, makes this retro shirt a timeless symbol of Roman football elegance.

98-Portugal Home Retro Football Shirt

England fans might cringe at the thought of Portugal’s home kit, which later became infamous during Ronaldo’s notorious ‘wink’ incident, but if Wayne Rooney can let it go, so can we—hopefully… This 1998 cherry red shirt, with its acid-green collar and bold yellow accents, carries a sense of playful sophistication that perfectly captures Portugal’s football flair.

22 Brazil Home Retro Football Shirt

Just like a pair of Levi’s, Converse, and a classic white T-shirt, a Brazilian football shirt is an essential for any football fan’s wardrobe. The only dilemma? Which era to choose. In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with the timeless 2022 edition. This shirt, embodying Brazil’s flair and creativity, keeps the spirit of Joga Bonito alive—a perfect tribute to a legacy of football brilliance.

Manchester United 97-99 Classic Away Retro Vintage Soccer Jerseys

Ah, the late ’90s—an era of dominance for Manchester United. The 97-99 away kit, with its sharp design and distinctive details, recalls the golden age of the Red Devils. Worn by legends like Beckham, Giggs, and Scholes, this jersey evokes memories of historic comebacks and trophy-laden seasons. For many United fans, this classic shirt represents the height of their footballing passion and the glory years under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Liverpool 87-88 Adidas Away

The 1987-88 season was a landmark year for Liverpool FC. Despite selling star striker Ian Rush to Juventus, they clinched the championship and showcased the stunning red-on-silver away kit. The subtle grey stripes cascading from the collar add a touch of pre-Klopp elegance to this classic design.

Arsenal 02-04 Henry 14 Home Retro Shirt-

Before the Premier League era, Arsenal’s legacy was defined by a different kind of excellence, well before the modern-day glories led by Arteta, Ødegaard, and others. Although they finished 10th in the 1982-83 season, the classic red-and-white motif of this 2002-2004 shirt stands out as a legendary design in football history. The iconic kit, with Henry’s number 14, remains a timeless symbol of Arsenal’s storied past.

Italy Buffon 06 World Cup Final Goalkeeper Soccer Jersey

Sometimes, the most memorable retro football shirts are those that embrace simplicity, with minimal detailing conveying an air of understated confidence. The Italy 2006 World Cup Final goalkeeper jersey, featuring just the iconic badge and no sponsor, exemplifies this classic look. For a touch of personal flair, consider adding Totti’s name on the back. You can find this timeless piece at vintagefootballshirts.com, cultkits.com, and grailed.com.