By Antynet Ford
Kenyan football fans have expressed their excitement after the unveiling of the official Arsenal 2024/25 away kit which strikingly features colours associated with the Kenyan flag.
The kit, which dominantly bears red, black, green and white stripes, has evoked memories of the Kenyan flag with many commentators, football pundits and even the kit’s designer himself admitting that there is a Kenyan thing going on.
Many Kenyans have welcomed the kit excitedly, impressed by the timely roll-out just when the country is experiencing an unprecedented wave of patriotism and political consciousness.
The kit is a collaboration with Adidas and British African heritage brand Labrum London.
Arsenal said the kit is a celebration to connect with their African supporters.
“We’re celebrating our connection to our African supporters via inspiration from the continent’s design traditions. Featuring the traditional pan-African colours of black, red and green, this shirt is punctuated with a striking white zig-zag graphic designed by Labrum London founder Foday Dumbuya.” Arsenal said on their official website.
“These colours and cultural cues bind together to create a mural of our past and present connection to the African diaspora in London and beyond – championing the rich cultural heritage within the team and across our supporter base.” They added.
“As a second-generation immigrant growing up in London, I watched some incredible Arsenal players with African heritage. These players were amazing role models to me, beautifully playing the game, but also representing the wider community that I connect with.” Foday Dumbuya, founder of Labrum London, said.
Other people have noted that… “The first time I saw the mixture, it’s kind of like Kenyan colours. African-type colours.” a host at AFTV, one of the biggest soccer communities on YouTube, said.
“What a time to be alive!” one Kenyan Gooner noted.
“From being recognised across the world for our work in the streets to now this! I’ve never been prouder of being both a Kenyan and a Gooner! Also, what a beautiful kit! Kenya to the world!” Said another.
Several other leading football fan accounts on X have also noted the similarities, saying that it was the perfect homage to Kenya’s current fight for political righteousness.
“Kenya has been all over the news lately. What a time to pay homage to the brave young people of Kenya! Thank you Arsenal!” A fan page wrote.
The kit, however, has also been touted as an ode to the Palestinian flag which also bears the red, green and black colours.
This is the second black-away shirt released in the last three years.
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