Liverpool adidas deal delays debut of new stripes

Liverpool adidas deal remains on the horizon, yet supporters will see the Reds run out in last season’s Nike shirts when pre-season begins this weekend.

Why the adidas partnership waits

The five-year agreement with the German giant, worth a reported £60 million per season, does not officially start until 1 August 2025. Because contracts are tied to fixed commercial cycles, Liverpool cannot wear the famous three stripes in an official capacity until that date, even in friendlies. The club therefore keeps using the title-winning Nike kit for the early warm-up fixtures.

New signings, old colours

Record recruit Florian Wirtz and Dutch full-back Jeremie Frimpong have been unveiled in the 2024-25 Nike strip. Neither will ever play a competitive minute in it, but Premier League rules allow clubs to announce players in whatever kit they are currently licensed to sell.

Pre-season schedule

Jürgen Klopp’s side open against Preston North End at Deepdale on Sunday, before flying to Asia to meet AC Milan and Yokohama FM. The first glimpse of the adidas era should come on 4 August against Athletic Club, followed by the Community Shield clash with Crystal Palace at Wembley on 10 August.

Liverpool adidas deal sets marketing tempo

Liverpool traditionally reveal new kits before the final home match, yet the overlap between suppliers forced a deviation this year. Retailers will continue stocking Nike merchandise throughout July, maximising revenue before the handover.

Quick opinion

Adidas stripes will undoubtedly look sharp on Merseyside, but the brief return of the Nike jersey offers fans a nostalgic nod to last season’s league triumph—one last spin before a fresh commercial chapter begins.