Adidas planning commemorative fourth kit for Manchester United's 125th anniversary in 2027

Adidas are planning a commemorative fourth kit for Manchester United to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the club adopting their red, white and black colours, according to reports from Footy Headlines. Two versions of the strip are said to be in development, with the kits not expected to be available until 2027.

The first version is understood to feature a ‘Man Utd Red’ base, completed with white shorts and black socks. The second is described as ‘Court Green’, a nod to the club’s identity as Newton Heath before they rebranded as Manchester United in 1902 and transitioned away from their original green and gold jersey.

It remains unclear whether the Newton Heath-inspired design will be worn by outfield players or serve as a goalkeeping jersey. The commemorative kits are expected to feature in Champions League fixtures or domestic cup competitions, assuming United remain in those tournaments when 2027 arrives.

Manchester United typically operate with three kits per season — a red home strip, an away kit, and a third outfit — making a fourth kit an unusual departure. Adidas have previously produced one-off United jerseys, including Chinese New Year editions and digital EA kits, but none have been used in competitive match play since the partnership began in 2015.

The closest precedent came in 2008, when United and Manchester City both wore retro-inspired kits in the Manchester Derby to mark the 50th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster.

The anniversary arrives at a significant moment for the club. Michael Carrick, appointed on a two-year contract at the end of the 2025-26 Premier League season, guided United to a third-place finish in his first campaign. He will now oversee the club’s return to competing across four competitions, as well as navigating his first transfer window as manager.