Adidas hits back in row over Manchester United’s sexist new kit

Adidas has defended the design of Manchester United’s new women’s shirt after it was branded sexist by fans.

The German sportswear giant, which unveiled the first United kit of its £750m deal with the Old Trafford club last week, was criticised on social media for the design of the women’s shirt, which has a much lower neckline than the men’s version.

One United fan, @MUnitedGirl, posted on Twitter: “Seriously Adidas? Why is the V-neck so low compared with the men’s one? Some of us don’t like to show cleavage. I call that discrimination. Nike never did that.”

Responding to the criticism, Adidas said it took the thoughts of fans into account before producing the kit. “Adidas provides an adult shirt which is a replica of what the players wear,” a spokesperson said.
“Based on research from fans, we also offer a women’s shirt as part of our lifestyle range of products. This range has a slightly different design and fit to give fans a choice.”
There were those who did not find the design of the new shirt offensive. Sonal Raja said: “Wow, they actually released a women’s shirt this year! About time tbh... It’s cute u know. I like it.”

Nike did not produce a women’s version of the United shirt last season. Adidas pointed out that it makes women’s kits for Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and all of its other top European clubs.

Credit: Guardian Sport

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