New Kit: Pride & Prestige

Rio Ferdinand, Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck sat down recently to talk about what it means to pull on the famous red shirt of Manchester United...

Ferdinand: “It’s hard to put into words what it means to wear the shirt. Each year you put the new kit on and see how it feels. I see how the socks feel, most importantly, because your feet have to be comfortable. You don’t want the shorts to be too tight or the shirt to be too heavy. In the past we’ve had a few baggy kits, especially when I first signed, but each year they’ve got a little bit more snug, which I personally prefer when you’re out on the pitch. When you see the red kit it brings a smile to your face and you feel proud. It’s about trying to replicate the club’s history. That’s the biggest thing for me. I said when I signed for the club that I wanted to become a part of its great history, an integral part, and to do that you’ve got to wear this beautiful kit.”

Welbeck: “It’s always a proud moment to pull on the shirt especially given the fact I’m a Manchester boy. I’ve supported the club all my life and to have come through the ranks and got into the first-team is a real privilege and honour. This club has so much history and there have been so many fantastic memories created by the players who have represented this club, past and present. It’s just great to be part of it.”

Cleverley: “It’s an iconic shirt. The club’s always worn red for as long as I can remember, and even before that going back to the likes of legends like George Best and Denis Law. It’s a shirt I’ve wanted to pull on since I was a boy and you get a real sense of achievement when you do it. Hopefully I can still be wearing the red shirt of Manchester United for many years to come. I’m a fan of [this season’s kit]. It’s traditional, it’s quite plain but I like the red, white and black and I like the collar on it. The most important thing is the fit, though. As long as you feel comfortable and it’s the right size – not too tight and you’re free to do what you need to do on the pitch – that’s the most important thing."