Quick Read
- Manchester United launched a new adidas collaboration with The Stone Roses on January 27, 2026.
- The collection draws inspiration from the band’s iconic ‘I Wanna Be Adored’ single artwork and lemon symbolism.
- Key items include a statement jersey, tracksuits, footwear, and various accessories.
- The initiative reinforces the club’s connection to Manchester’s cultural identity beyond football.
- This is the latest in a series of collaborations bridging sport, music, and fashion for the club.
MANCHESTER (Azat TV) – Manchester United officially launched its latest adidas collaboration with legendary Mancunian band The Stone Roses on January 27, 2026. The new collection, unveiled across the club’s official channels and retail outlets, further solidifies United’s strategy to intertwine its identity with Manchester’s rich cultural fabric, particularly its iconic music scene, responding to a growing fan appetite for lifestyle collections that transcend traditional sports merchandise.
This marks the second significant fashion collaboration between adidas, Manchester United, and The Stone Roses, building on previous success and demonstrating the club’s commitment to positioning itself at the intersection of sport, fashion, and culture. The range draws heavily on the band’s unmistakable visual identity, particularly the iconic lemon symbolism and artwork associated with their era-defining releases, notably the ‘I Wanna Be Adored’ single sleeve designed by guitarist John Squire.
The Collection Unveiled
At the core of the newly released collection is the Manchester United x The Stone Roses jersey, described as a statement piece blending football heritage with bold artistic expression. Crafted in jacquard fabric, the jersey features an all-over graphic print influenced by the band’s artwork, balancing everyday comfort with durability. It is available in both short- and long-sleeved versions, catering to diverse fan preferences.
Beyond the jersey, the lifestyle range extends to classic football terrace culture, blending nostalgia with contemporary design. Supporters can acquire a tracksuit adorned with all-over prints and heritage detailing, alongside a jacket subtly finished with lemon motifs that pay homage to The Stone Roses without overpowering the design. Shorts are offered in both clean, classic styles and bolder all-over print options, providing flexibility in how fans wear the range.
The collaboration also ventures into footwear and accessories, with three separate footwear drops forming part of the release, including the ZX 600 and two Tobacco silhouettes. Accessories such as a Stone Roses T-shirt, scarf, and bucket hat complete the lineup, offering multiple avenues for supporters to celebrate the shared legacy between the club and one of Manchester’s most influential bands. The collection is available now at Manchester United stores, the Megastore at Old Trafford, selected adidas retailers, and via the adidas website.
Bridging Sport and Culture
Manchester United’s ongoing initiative to collaborate with cultural institutions like The Stone Roses underscores its evolving identity beyond a mere football club. Club officials stated that the collection is as much about storytelling as it is about merchandise, reinforcing United’s deep connection to Manchester’s cultural fabric. This strategy aligns with a broader trend where football culture and streetwear increasingly overlap, especially among younger fans who seek to express their allegiance through lifestyle products.
The club has consistently leaned into its heritage and city connections in recent years, from heritage-driven kit launches to collaborations that nod to Manchester’s rich history. This approach has generated significant demand for lifestyle collections that reflect what Manchester represents beyond matchday, tapping into the city’s musical soul to tell a story that feels unmistakably Mancunian.
‘Madchester’ Legacy and Fan Engagement
The Stone Roses, a pivotal band in the ‘Madchester’ music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, embody a significant part of Manchester’s cultural legacy. Their influence on music, fashion, and youth culture made them an ideal partner for Manchester United’s efforts to celebrate a true Mancunian bond. The launch video for the collection notably featured players, both past and present, from the men’s and women’s teams, set to the tune of ‘I Wanna Be Adored,’ further cementing the emotional connection for fans.
This blend of football and music icons creates a powerful narrative, allowing fans to engage with the club’s identity in a more holistic way. The collaboration allows Manchester United to continue strengthening its ties with its local community and global fanbase by offering products that celebrate the city’s unique spirit and cultural contributions.
The sustained success of Manchester United’s cultural collaborations, particularly with iconic local entities like The Stone Roses, signals a strategic shift in how major sports brands leverage their identity, moving beyond pure athletic performance to become significant players in fashion and lifestyle, thereby deepening fan engagement and expanding revenue streams.