Stand by Tee

Goal With It, Championship Supernova, The Masterpass, Cigarettes & Alco-goal, Rock ‘N’ Goal Star… okay, that’s enough. But Manchester City’s collaboration with local (and global) icon, and lifelong die-hard fan, Noel Gallagher feels like a match made in heaven. 

Noel, by handwriting every name and number, has designed the font for the team’s shirts that will be worn by the Men’s First Team in its 2024/2025 campaign.
 
Beyond the shirts (which do look awesome) it’s a perfect example of how utilising popular culture can present huge commercial opportunities for major sport teams.
 
The authenticity couldn’t be stronger. Also, the fans! Manchester loves Gallagher, and fan-favourite singalongs like Bring it on Down, Roll with it, and All Around the World are just a few of the chants that echo through the Etihad on match day. This will obviously land well with both the lifelong and hobbyist.
 
It simply feels so Manchester, and it’s no secret that, especially in recent City-dominant years, the club’s fan-base has expanded well beyond the city. It’s an opportunity for global fans to feel more included in Manchester’s culture beyond their favourite team - which, for the city commercially, can open many doors.
 
As cool as this is, it isn’t the first time one of Manchester’s big two has tapped into the unrivalled music scene. Earlier this year, Adidas and Manchester United launched a Stone Roses Originals collection – a shirt designed in tribute to the cover of The Stone Roses’ self-titled debut album, released in 1989. 
 
With legendary current and past acts at Manchester’s disposal, both feel like perfect fits. But it isn’t the only city with beloved icons, and it will be interesting to see if any other global club, team or brand will react and do something similar. Let’s hope partnerships like this Bib Forever… last one!