Manchester City, a football club known for its dominance in the Premier League and European competitions, is also gaining attention for its unique sartorial choices. One of the most talked-about trends among players in recent years has been their love for cardigans. Whether they are walking off the bus, arriving at the stadium, or attending press conferences, City players have been spotted sporting cardigans with increasing frequency. But what’s behind this fashion trend, and why have the club’s players embraced it?

This article will delve into the rise of the cardigan in Manchester City’s team culture, explore how it has become a symbol of the club’s style, and answer some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding the trend. Let’s take a closer look.

The Emergence of the Cardigan Trend in Manchester City

The cardigan has long been associated with preppy, academic, or even vintage styles. However, its popularity in the world of professional football, particularly at Manchester City, is a relatively recent phenomenon.

While footballers have always been known for their attention to style, cardigans didn’t become a staple of matchday attire until the last few seasons. So, what sparked this shift in fashion? Several factors may be contributing to this rise in popularity among City’s squad.

The Influence of Pep Guardiola: Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, is known for his own sense of style, which blends practicality with a sleek, minimalist look. His preference for smart-casual outfits, including cardigans and knitwear, might have influenced his players’ wardrobe choices. Guardiola himself often wears knitted sweaters and cardigans in public appearances, signaling a desire for comfort while maintaining a sophisticated appearance. Given his significant influence on the team, it’s no surprise that some of his players have followed suit.

Increased Media Focus on Footballers’ Personal Style: With the rise of social media and the increasing role of fashion in the football world, players are now more conscious than ever about how they are perceived off the pitch. Instagram, in particular, has allowed players to share their personal style, and cardigans are a popular choice due to their versatility and comfort. Players like Jack Grealish, Riyad Mahrez, and Bernardo Silva have been spotted wearing cardigans both in and out of the stadium, contributing to the trend.

Why Cardigans?

While footballers are often seen in sharp suits or casual streetwear, the cardigan stands out as a more relaxed yet polished option. But why have Manchester City players gravitated toward this particular garment.

Comfort and Versatility: Footballers lead incredibly active lives, and comfort is key when choosing attire. Cardigans, typically made from soft wool or cotton, offer an ideal balance between warmth and breathability. Many City players have commented on how comfortable they feel in these garments, which is crucial during long flights or travel to away matches.

Moreover, cardigans are versatile. They can be dressed up with a shirt and trousers for a more formal appearance, or paired with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual, off-duty look. The versatility of cardigans makes them suitable for a wide range of occasions, both professional and personal.

The Stylish and Sophisticated Look: Cardigans have an inherently sophisticated appearance. The structured knitwear creates a smart, sharp profile, often seen as more polished than a simple hoodie or jacket. For players like Kevin De Bruyne or Ilkay Gündogan, who are regularly in the spotlight, dressing in a way that reflects both their athleticism and their off-field sophistication is key. The cardigan complements the personality of these players, who are both classy and laid-back.

A Subtle Nod to Fashion Trends: The fashion world sees constant fluctuations in trends, and the cardigan has reemerged as a popular piece in the wardrobes of style-conscious individuals. It aligns with the current movement toward 90s-inspired fashion, with items like oversized sweaters, knitted vests, and slouchy cardigans coming back into vogue. Manchester City’s players, who are aware of these trends, have incorporated this piece into their day-to-day attire, both on match days and during public appearances.

Popular Manchester City Players and Their Cardigan Choices

Several players from Manchester City have been spotted wearing cardigans, each showcasing their personal style. Here’s a look at some of the most notable fashion-forward players:

Jack Grealish: Jack Grealish, known for his bold style choices both on and off the pitch, has become one of the leading trendsetters in the world of football fashion. He’s often seen sporting cardigans with relaxed, casual styles. His preference for slightly oversized, comfortable fits has made him a favorite among fans who admire his effortless yet stylish look.

Riyad Mahrez: Riyad Mahrez is another player who has embraced the cardigan trend. Known for his more understated style, Mahrez often pairs cardigans with simple t-shirts or shirts, achieving a sophisticated yet understated look. His minimalist approach to fashion, with a focus on quality fabrics and subtle designs, makes the cardigan a perfect fit for his wardrobe.

Bernardo Silva: Bernardo Silva is another City player often seen in cardigans. His choices lean toward more form-fitting, tailored styles, highlighting the polished, stylish aesthetic he tends to embody. Bernardo’s cardigan style speaks to a growing trend of footballers opting for elegance and sharp tailoring rather than casual, loose-fit streetwear.

Kevin De Bruyne: The Belgian midfielder is another player whose stylish off-field look frequently features cardigans. De Bruyne’s combination of sharp tailoring with more relaxed, comfortable pieces aligns perfectly with the cardigan as a choice of outerwear. His refined yet approachable style is reflected in his cardigan choices, particularly for press conferences and events outside of matchday.

How the Cardigan Became a Symbol of Manchester City’s Team Culture

As Manchester City has continued to achieve success under Guardiola, the players have developed a distinctive culture, one that blends a winning mentality with a modern, sophisticated style. The cardigan has come to symbolize this fusion of athletic excellence with a sophisticated approach to personal branding.

A Mark of Unity: When the Manchester City players arrive at games or walk into press conferences in coordinated styles, it sends a message of unity. The cardigan has become part of the team’s broader image, symbolizing their collective identity as players of a global club that values both success on the field and style off of it.

Reflecting the Team’s Success: Manchester City has evolved from a club in transition to one of the top teams in world football. Their success, both in the Premier League and European competitions, has been mirrored by an increased focus on off-field appearances. The players’ adoption of the cardigan is symbolic of their elevated status; these garments are not just stylish; they reflect the professionalism and sophistication of a world-class team.

FAQs

Why are Manchester City players wearing cardigans?

In October 2023, Manchester City players were spotted wearing custom-designed cardigans as part of their pre-match attire ahead of a UEFA Champions League match against Young Boys. These cardigans were designed by the Canadian brand DSquared2, known for their high-end, fashion-forward designs. The cardigans were meant to protect players from the cold weather in Switzerland.

What do the Manchester City cardigans look like?

The cardigans featured the Manchester City logo on the front and the players’ names on the back, making them personalized for the squad. The style combined these unique features with a casual, relaxed look, paired with jeans​.

How much do these cardigans cost?

These designer cardigans are part of a high-end fashion line created by DSquared2. While specific prices for the cardigans aren’t available, DSquared2 items for Manchester City fans can be expensive. For example, a woolen jumper from their Manchester City collection costs around €450, with other items like branded boots priced at €698​.

Why did fans criticize the cardigans?

The pre-match outfit sparked widespread criticism, with many fans expressing their disapproval of the cardigan’s design. Some felt that the combination of cardigans and jeans was an odd fashion choice, particularly for professional athletes. Former footballers Joe Cole and Joleon Lescott also shared their negative opinions, calling the outfit “unacceptable”​.

In Summary

The rise of the cardigan among Manchester City players reflects broader trends in the fashion world, as well as a shift in how athletes view their off-field personas. By embracing this style, players like Jack Grealish, Riyad Mahrez, and Kevin De Bruyne have not only enhanced their personal brand but have also contributed to a fashion statement that symbolizes the elegance and professionalism of one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

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