We all know the phrase "modern classic" is thrown around for any new shirt that comes out and looks half-decent. I've delved through United's kit history from 2005 onwards to pick my top 3 modern classic Manchester United shirts. (If you don't know this, I'm a United fan and have been watching them since 1990).
The top 3 was a hard call with the 2009/2010 home and away coming close, and the 2021/2022 third being a late shout for a top 3 spot.
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Number 3 - 2020/2021 Third Shirt
This is the newest shirt on the list and one that really stands out as a bold design. The pink 2018/2019 almost stole third place, but I just had to go with this. It's often called the "zebra" shirt, and it really stands out among the historical United shirts.
It's a love-it-or-hate-it kind of shirt, but I'm in the love-it category. When you consider that the other shirts that year were plain, this one had to stand out, or it would have been a very forgettable year. Over time, United's 20/21 third shirt has really grown on me. In the player spec, the shirt designs look even bolder.
Number 2 - 2018/2019 Away shirt
The first and only pink Manchester United shirt was a shock when it was first launched. What I really like about this one, aside from its look, is that it tells a story about Manchester.
The pink was the colour of the Manchester Evening News late edition, which was the only way to find out the scores from other matches after the games in the 1960s/ 70s, and 80s. Using something historical from the City of Manchester is a good twist to create an away shirt that means something.
This is nothing new, though; NBA teams have a "city" jersey that represents them every season.
If you are picking one of these up, check for pulls as the material is prone to them. Also, look for a player issue spec with the printed badges, as these are much rarer than the general replica shirts.
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Number 1 - 2007/2008 Home, Away Goalkeeper
I could have had these three as the top 3, but decided to group them. The back stripes are iconic for the 2007/2008 season and Ronaldo. This shirt has gained popularity over time, and Ronaldo's return has made it ultra-desirable.
The main downside of them is that the tags come off with wear and washing. It is arduous work to find one in excellent condition. However, they can be repaired with the original tags, thereby extending the shirt's lifespan.
This was the shirt worn in the 2008 Champions League win over Chelsea, which adds to its value to United fans.
In the 2008/2009 season, United wore this shirt 30 times, winning 24 matches. They went on to win a 3rd consecutive league title, the League Cup, and lost in the Champions League final to Barcelona.
If you are looking to buy one, then always check the back tags and get one in good condition. If they have been repaired, they will be printed over the stitching. If they are original, they will be stitched over the print.
If you want a rarer example, look for the long-sleeve version.
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