Manchester City's kits will look slightly different next season after manufacturer Puma announced it is scrapping sleeve branding from the 2027/28 season, opting instead to have just its logo on the front of shirts.
The Rudolf Dassler-founded company has decided to part ways with the iconic cat emblem that has been a major part of its identity since the early 2000s. The change is not limited to City, with a number of other clubs whose home, away and third kits are manufactured by the brand also affected.
Club's Financial Charges Saga
The kit change comes as City could end up debuting their new kits in the Championship or potentially even further down the EFL pyramid, dependent on the outcome of their ongoing financial breaches saga with the Premier League. Last month, the club were found guilty of 114 infractions regarding monetary regulations, which are alleged to have taken place between 2009 and 2018.
As a result of City appealing the verdict, which was brought to them by an independent panel, football fans will have to wait a little while longer before they learn the club's fate. A final decision is expected in early 2027.
Speculation Over Potential Punishment
That has not stopped fans and pundits from speculating a fitting punishment for the club if their challenge fails. While some have suggested that a transfer embargo and fine will suffice, others have called for far harsher sanctions.
The Premier League could look to expel City from the English top flight, hand them massive points deductions, and even strip them of the titles they won over the nine-year period their breaches of financial rules are alleged to have taken place.
Focus on the New Season
Despite the outside noise, Enzo Maresca and his men have made it clear that their attention is fully fixed on the new Premier League season. The club returned from the late September and early October international break with a 3-0 rout of Liverpool at Anfield.
While City endured a 4-2 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in Europe midweek, they bounced back with a 3-2 win over Ipswich Town on their return to Premier League football on Saturday. Up next for the club is a Champions League clash with AEK on Tuesday, October 20.
