Arsenal have released their new home kit (image above) for sale for the 2012/14 seasons which features a blue hoop detail inspired by the home kit socks worn in the 1930s under legendary manager Herbert Chapman.
Chapman integrated blue to maximise player visibility as it contrasted with the traditional red and white strip enabling players to pick out one another more easily on the pitch.
Arsenal’s official website wrote:
As is traditional with the north London club, the world renowned red and white is the main colour way in the shirt, with a block red body and white sleeves.
Further details in the shirt include the outer back neck graphic which references the WM formation that Chapman pioneered so successfully, along with the inner back graphic which reads “Victoria, Concordia, Crescit” – the Club’s long-held motto since 1948 which translates as Victory through Harmony.
The origins of the blue (obsidian) design features lie in Chapman’s innovative approach to the game. Arsenal manager between 1925 and 1934, his guidance took the Club to three league titles and an FA cup victory during that time.
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Chapman was a modernising tactician, advocated the use of numbered shirts and white balls, and also made significant changes to the Club’s kit for the 1933/34 season. In that year white sleeves were added to the previously all-red shirt and blue hoops were also introduced to the socks. Chapman’s rationale for these innovations was he wanted to maximise player visibility, making it easier for his players to pick each other out on the field of play.
Theo Walcott has stated that his fellow team-mates are excited about the new kit and has labelled the new-look outfit as ‘brilliant’. The Englishman told Arsenal’s official website:
The players always get excited about trying on kits for the first time, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Arsenal is a club with an incredible history and to see this recognised in such a classy and modern kit is brilliant.
Arsenal’s crest upon the shirt reverts back to Arsenal’s simple, contemporary badge that was replaced for the 125th anniversary celebrations during the 2011/12 season.
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