About To say that the last Premier League season was unusual is an understatement, but despite a disjointed second half it still delivered on stand-out moments, enormous achievements, and on-pitch action that kept us all captivated even from a (social) distance. As we anticipate the kick-off of ‘20/’21 on 12 September, we take a look at how the teams are faring in terms of form and fashion...
Creative by Jamie Rankin, Perry Harding, Jamie Bitmead Words by Victoria Smith Innovation by Radosław Tomaszewski
New in this season!
Home shirt
Kit supplier: Adidas
Having finished in a could-do-better 8th last season, Arsenal will be looking to make a big improvement in ‘20/’21. Buoyed by their FA Cup and Charity Shield wins, the team should be raring to go, and with Mikel Arteta undoubtedly keen to make maximum impact in his first full season as manager, the Gunners will be poised and ready to shoot straight to the top.
Last season: 8th
In a fond nod to Arsenal’s former ground, the design of this season’s away shirt is inspired by Highbury’s iconic marble halls. Whether this unusual kit, complete with back-to-basics monochrome crest, becomes as cherished as Highbury’s hallowed turf remains to be seen, but it sure makes a statement.
2019/20 Wins:
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2019/20 Goals:
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AWAY shirt
Anyone who remembers that away shirt from ‘91-’93 will know the chevron is a sartorial staple for the Gunners. This season, it’s reimagined in the club’s signature scarlet for a home kit that references the past but is ready to take on the future.
FASHION FORWARD
Woven Into the team
Kit supplier: Kappa
A shaky start to ‘19/’20 was forgotten by the end of the season, and Villa survived to play another day in the Premier League. They need to hang on to Jack Grealish to give them the best chance of improving on their current position at 17th, while away from the League all eyes at the club will be firmly on the prize after EFL Cup victory was so tantalisingly close last season...
Last season: 17th
Sleek and simple, the pinstripe from the home kit is picked up here in claret, running through a stealthy black lead colorway that’s going to look pretty classy on the pitch. A striking strip for a team that means business.
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If it ain’t broke, right? Claret and blue has been worn by Villa players since the late 1800s, and they’re not about to change it now. Kappa’s home kit for ‘20/ ’21 sees a subtle pinstripe running through the cloth to add some flair.
PLAYED A BLINDER
Kit supplier: Nike
Shane Duffy being courted by Celtic and West Ham could rock the boat for this seaside team - who finished in 15th last season - but they’ll have their eyes out for a suitable replacement to keep their defense in respectable condition. To really excel and avoid another relegation battle, a bit of firepower is needed.
Last season: 15th
Nobody’s going to miss Brighton’s players striding onto the pitch in this canary yellow number. Will the sunny shade point to a bright future for the team? The opposition is sure to be dazzled one way or another, that’s for sure.
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The Seagulls have also gone for a ‘we mean business’ pinstripe in their home kit, with thin white vertical lines adorning a classic Brighton blue base. A neat little collar adds a vintage touch to this classic-with-a-twist shirt.
BEACH ATTIRE
Kit supplier: UMBRO
A mid-table 10th was a more than respectable finish for Lancashire’s only Premier League team, and they will be hoping to build on this success in ‘20/21. The determined northerners will want to establish themselves as viable contenders for Europe this season - the board working harmoniously with Sean Dyce will be a good start.
Last season: 10th
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This season’s home kit has some subtle touches to make it stand out from previous offerings, notably sky blue sleeves that sit lower down the arm than usual, and a unique collar with V-shaped indent based on the club’s shirt from 100 years ago. V for victory? Only time will tell.
GREATEST SHOW ON TURF!
Kit supplier: NIKE
While Frank Lampard’s first season as manager of his old club was respectable - particularly in light of a transfer ban and losing Eden Hazard - fans and owners will want something to shout about, as well as far fewer defeats, this season. A host of exciting new signings should see the team make inroads on the top two in ‘20/’21, and Lampard's Chelsea Legend status extended.
Last season: 4th
That dapper herringbone is picked up again for the away kit, but this time in a paler blue with a v-neck as opposed to classic crew. Dedicated followers of fashion...and football.
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Chelsea fans pride themselves on their sense of style, and this season’s shirt will appeal to even the most discerning supporters - its classic blue fabric has a subtle herringbone pattern running throughout that’s inspired by Savile Row tailors. Dressed to impress indeed.
MANUFACTURED OPPORTUNITY
Kit supplier: PUMA
Losing four of their last five games was a pretty poor end to last season, so Palace will be looking forward to a fresh start in ‘20/’21. Keeping hold of Wilfried Zaha would be a huge advantage, but seems unlikely. Either way the team needs more firepower, more goals, and more wins after their losing streak.
Last season: 14th
So fresh and so clean, the addition of white to the home kit design gives Palace’s away shirt a modern aesthetic that also looks pretty patriotic. Hopefully, there’ll be plenty of reason for fans to pledge allegiance to the south-east London favourites this season.
This season’s take on the team’s classic red and blue in an undeniably sleeker affair than previous years - the bold red stripes stop just short of the neckline and are almost arrow-like in their design. Straight to the point, no messin’.
TURNING HEADS
Setting pace
Kit supplier: Hummel
Fans’ expectations weren’t quite met last season, with many feeling the Toffees were underachieving. The team’s triumphant neighbours across Stanley Park won’t be doing much to boost the overall mood, and will hopefully provide motivation for a more impressive ‘20/’21. A big-name signing like Rodriguez is exactly the kind of boost the team requires.
Last season: 12th
The amber and blue of the away kit is inspired by Everton’s away colours from the 1960s and 1970s. It’s 50 years since the team clinched the title in the 1969/70 season, so those with a superstitious streak could be hoping that the kit inspires a repeat performance...
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New kit manufacturer Hummel makes its mark on Everton’s home kit in the form of white chevrons running down each shoulder, while the body of the iconic royal blue shirt features a subtle soundbar motif embossed across it in reference to the club’s Z-Cars anthem
NEED ASSISTANCE?
Newly promoted Fulham will be in high spirits as they return to the Premier League after just one season in the Championship. The team will be hungry to maintain their presence, and it shouldn't be too difficult to do - no drastic changes, continued team spirit and perhaps a couple of new players in key areas are all that should be required to enable them to stay put.
Last season: 4th in efl
This is the first entirely yellow strip worn by Fulham since their '08/'09 season, and it's going to get the west Londoners noticed wherever they are in the country. As well as its striking colour, this kit is notable for its fabric, which is recycled polyester, and its subtle white hexagon detailing on the shoulders.
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Stepping back into the Premier League in style, Fulham players will don v-neck shirts in classic white with smart black sleeves, while on the back there's a round label featuring a design inspired by ironwork at Craven Cottage. It's a special touch for what fans hope will be another special season at the club....
WHITE WASH
After 16 years in the wilderness, Leeds are back to claim what they undoubtedly believe is their rightful place in the Premier League. However, the hard work starts now - it’s anything but a foregone conclusion that they’re here to stay. Smashing their record transfer fee (a not-too-shabby £27m) with new signing Rodrigo from Valencia should help…
Last season: 1st in efl
With its wide V at the neck, two-tone colourway and mid-gold Adidas stripes, there's more than a hint of nostalgia coming through in the design of Leeds’ new away shirt. Those with a beady eye will notice a small white Yorkshire rose at the neck on the back of the shirt. The devil’s in the detail, after all.
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There’s nothing like making an entrance, and Leeds are marking their return to the Premier League in pristine fashion by teaming up with Adidas to create a snow-white shirt adorned only by those famous three stripes in royal-ish blue, the club crest and sponsor logo.
NEW ARRIVALS
A top-four finish was in sight for Leicester City last season, until losing three of their last five games consigned them to fifth. Still a great achievement, but Brendan Rogers will be wanting to prove himself in ‘20/’21 and improve on last year with a safe slot in the top four and a trophy too. Replacing Chilwell will be top of the agenda.
Last season: 5th
Another dazzler in pure white, Leicester’s away kit will see players stepping onto the pitch in almost ethereal fashion, with the pure, gleaming shirt adorned with golden Adidas stripes.
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This season’s home shirt references the 1990s, making the Foxes o-so on trend. There’s no surprises with the colour, but the message on the front will be a little unusual, reading ‘Thailand Smiles With You’ (for league games only) in a bid to support the country’s recovery from COVID-19.
LOVELY SET-PIECE
Leading the way
More of the same is all you can ask from a team who made last season look easy. Having finally got to the top spot after a 30 year break, the champions won’t settle for anything less than being number one, and that goes for their efforts in Europe too. There could be a few new faces but major signings seem unlikely.
Last season: 1st
Liverpool’s away kit makes a splash, with a striking teal colourway featuring swirling graphics inspired by the Shankley Gates at Anfield and textured print referencing the flyposters associated with the city’s musical heritage. There’s a lot going on here, but as Liverpool have proved, there’s no point in doing things by halves...
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It had to be something special for the champions of the Premier League, and their collab with Nike has delivered. This kit looks super smart - the club’s red lifted by early-1990s inspired white and green stripes at the collar and sleeves. The kit is made entirely from 100% recycled polyester sourced from recycled plastic bottles.
CULTURE CLUB
Kit supplier: Puma
Are things about to get Messi at The Etihad? As City fans all over the world dare to dream, players will be gearing up for a season that tops ‘20/’21. There isn’t a lot that needs improvement, but fewer losses and the arrival of a certain Argentinian superstar could see them reclaim their Premier League crown, and finally cement success in Europe too.
Last season: 2nd
This dark blue and black shirt features an intricate pattern inspired by the architecture of Castleford in Manchester, while the crest and sponsor come at you in a pretty flashy copper tone.
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Man City’s iconic sky blue is reimagined in a mosaic design informed by Manchester’s Northern Quarter, where creative types reign supreme. It’s a clever way to update the kit without changing its overall aesthetic too drastically.
SHOOTING BOOTS
Kit supplier: ADIDAS
United had a good end to ‘19/’20, securing third place and a one-way ticket to the Champions League. With Ole at the wheel, the Red Devils will be looking to mount a serious title challenge this year, and if the rumours of Sancho joining are true, it could be exciting times in Manchester all round this season...
Last season: 3rd
This season’s away kit is a rather smart dark green, with a textured design adding both depth and intrigue. A standard, no-frills shape combined with the grown-up colourway results in an understated look for awaydays that are anything but.
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From a distance, the fabric of Manchester United’s home kit almost looks like red marl, but closer inspection reveals that its textured look is provided by flecks of black and yellow that tie-in with the club crest. Shape-wise, it’s a no-nonsense t-shirt style that lets the statement fabric do the talking.
THREAD DEVILS
Fans will be hoping for positive news after the recent failed takeover… The prospect of another season being owned by Mike Ashley is unlikely to set pulses racing, but manager Steve Bruce has managed to steady the ship. That said, a poor end to last season needs addressing, and some strong new signings would help to reinvigorate the team.
Last season: 13th
Newcastle’s away kit is where the club gets to have some fun colour-wise, and the choice of an almost neon yellow is certainly a bold one. Look closely and you’ll see a prism design running through the fabric - it’s based on the steelwork of the Tyne Bridge, and ties this shirt into the city it represents in eye-catching style.
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You can only go so far with such an iconic black and white design, and the only real difference to Newcastle’s signature stripes this season is that they’re slimmer than last season. That said, there’s nothing boring about this striking monochrome jersey, and fans certainly won’t be disappointed.
A STITCH IN TYNE
Last season was a stunner for the Blades - newly promoted and hungry for success, they defied the odds to put in some truly stellar performances and prove what a great team they are. A ninth-place finish was probably above expectations at the start of the season, and if they can score more goals, a place in Europe could be within reach.
Last season: 9th
The Blades are pretty in pink for away games this season, with a shirt that comes in a soft blush tone. Basically, if you mix together the colours of those home stripes you’d get this shirt. It’s pretty clever when you think about it
Another team slightly restricted by its signature stripes, the classic red and white lines of Sheffield’s home kit are present and correct for ‘20/’21, with a white band at the top and no-nonsense black V around the neck.
LOOKING SHARP
Kit supplier: Under Armour
The Saints marched their way up to 11th last season to avoid a relegation battle and will be pleased with their performance. The main objectives for ensuring a top-ten finish in ‘20/’21 will be keeping hold of Danny Ings, who finished joint second highest goal scorer in the League last season, and shoring up their defence.
Last season: 11th
Looking back to go forwards again, the Saints’ away kit also references the past, using a deep navy that was worn from 1891 to 1950. It’s a welcome return if you ask us, with the inky tone complemented nicely by yellow and solent blue accents that reference the team’s 1976 FA Cup final victory.
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Southampton’s 135th anniversary is marked by a kit that features a white sash which was first worn by the club in 1885. It’s a strong style statement and clever update on the team’s standard stripes.
ALL SAINTS
Now they’ve settled into their shiny new home, it’s time for Tottenham to start focusing on results again. A disappointing finish last season (in comparison to previous years) won’t have thrilled fans or management, and Jose will be aiming for a top-four finish and nothing less. Some silverware after a 12-year hiatus wouldn’t go amiss, either.
Last season: 6th
A deep forest green has been adopted by the North Londoners for their away games, with all details in a not-so-subtle yellow tone for colour-pop contrast.
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Spurs’ signature navy and white shirt has been given subtle updates by Nike in the form of a futuristic fabric (again, made from recycled polyester) with a graphic pattern running through it. The wheel hasn’t exactly been reinvented here, but it’s certainly turning in the right direction.
IN THEIR PRIME
The newly promoted Midlanders return to the Premier League with manager Slaven Bilic, and they’re keen to make their mark. Any position out of the bottom three would be seen as a success in their first season back.
Last season: 2nd in EFL
The barcode is reinterpreted in yellow and green in this unashamedly in-your-face away kit, and why not? It’s time for the newly promoted club and its fans to see and be seen.
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West Brom have gone through the archives for inspiration for this season’s home kit, and the ‘barcode’ design is a nod to their ‘92/93 season. They’ll be wearing their stripes with pride as they stride out ready to take on the Premier League once again.
CAN I SPEAK TO THE MANAGER?
Kit supplier: Umbro
Another team whose fans are dissatisfied due in part to the owners - could this be the season that brings a bit of harmony? Last year saw the Hammers spending far too much time flirting with relegation, so ‘20/’21 needs to see an improvement if fans are to be pacified. A big season for manager and owners to strike the right balance…
Last season: 16th
Same...but different. West Ham’s sky blue takes the lead in its away kit, as it did in the 1960s, with two claret stripes worn proud across the chest.
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West Ham’s new kit marks the team’s 125th anniversary, so they were hardly going to start messing around with its design too much. The shirt is inspired by kits from the 1960s, in homage to Bobby Moore et al, and it’s a fitting tribute to the side’s stellar footballing heritage.
IRON OUT THE CREASES
After a second consecutive seventh-place finish, Wolves have established themselves as a real force in the Premier League, and will be approaching this season with determination. Nuno Santo will be hoping to build on last year’s promising performance in the Europa League, as well as make a serious bid for some silverware.
Last season: 7th
The bright blue and white brush-stroke pattern of this season’s away shirt probably isn’t what anyone expected from Wolves, but with its hints of the home shirt’s amber and black around the collar and sleeves, it’s a colour-clash combination that’s surprisingly successful.
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Wolves’ distinctive amber kit makes a bold statement in itself, and it’s intensified by a graphic background design that adds depth to what could otherwise be a pretty one-dimensional shirt. Black sleeves with an amber band finish this season’s kit in striking style.
WHAT A HOWLER
