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Bruised Banana: History behind Arsenal’s new away kit
25th July, 2026 08:40 AM
Arsenal and adidas have officially introduced the club’s away strip for the 2026/27 campaign, reviving one of the most famous designs in football history with a modern twist.
The new jersey pays tribute to the legendary “Bruised Banana” shirt while celebrating the Gunners’ status as reigning Premier League champions.
The predominantly navy kit features the classic adidas Trefoil logo, blending the club’s rich traditions with modern performance technology and contemporary football fashion. It draws inspiration from the memorable away shirt worn between 1991 and 1993, updating its famous look for a new generation.
The original “Bruised Banana” jersey has long been regarded as one of Arsenal’s most iconic shirts. Its bold appearance became closely associated with a memorable period in the club’s history and has remained a fan favorite for decades, symbolizing the team’s distinctive style, success and lasting influence on the game.
For the upcoming season, Arsenal and adidas have refreshed that historic design while ensuring it reflects the club’s ambitions as they prepare for another chapter following their league triumph.
To accompany the launch, the club released a collection of short films centered on the idea that every football shirt carries its own story. The series features current players, club legends and supporters sharing memorable moments, personal experiences and matchday traditions connected to Arsenal.
The campaign includes appearances from Declan Rice, Chloe Kelly, Riccardo Calafiori, Ian Wright, musician Little Simz and several fans, all reflecting on the journeys that connect them to the new away jersey.
Looking ahead
Defender Riccardo Calafiori expressed his excitement about wearing the new strip, saying: “We’re all looking forward to playing in this kit, we know the impact that the Bruised Banana has had on our supporters, you only have to see how many still wear it today to understand how much it means to the club. We’re proud to wear something with such history attached to it and use that as inspiration as we continue to push ourselves forward. It’s our turn to create our own legacy at the club, we’ve enjoyed so many amazing moments with our supporters but we’re hungry for more. We want to keep winning, keep creating special memories together and give our supporters even more reasons to be proud of the team.”
The shirt is built on a navy foundation and showcases a striking geometric pattern inspired by the original Bruised Banana design. Updated in navy and yellow shades, the graphic creates a fresh visual identity while staying true to Arsenal’s heritage.
Additional red and yellow accents decorate the Trefoil crew-neck collar and other trim throughout the jersey, adding contrast to the overall design. The Arsenal crest is displayed on the chest alongside the adidas Trefoil logo, emphasizing the connection between the club’s history and modern football culture.
Constructed with specially engineered lightweight fabric, the jersey also incorporates adidas’ latest CLIMACOOL+ technology, designed to improve comfort by enhancing moisture control and ventilation during matches.
Completing the away kit are matching navy shorts and socks featuring coordinated red and yellow detailing, giving Arsenal a unified look on the pitch throughout the 2026/27 season.
