BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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In a striking fusion of legacy and innovation, AC Milan has unveiled its 2025/26 home kit in collaboration with PUMA, a design that boldly reawakens founder Herbert Kilpin’s fiery vision of a “team of devils.” This latest drop channels the essence of Milan’s identity through a visually intense interpretation of the club’s traditional red and black stripes. Subtle flame motifs streak through the design, invoking Kilpin’s famous words–”Our colours will be red like flames and black to invoke fear in our opponents.” It’s not just a jersey; it’s a resurrection of the club’s spiritual DNA.
At the heart of this reimagining lies a monochrome red club crest, appearing for the first time on a home shirt. The radical shift from the classic multicoloured badge signals a deliberate break from tradition, allowing the club’s devilish reputation to burn even brighter on the pitch. Complementing the flames is an embossed devil silhouette embedded within the fabric itself–further proof that this isn’t just a kit, but a wearable embodiment of Milan’s mythology. PUMA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Maikel Oettle, summed it up best: “The new Home kit reflects the Club’s heritage through a design that builds on our traditions while introducing subtle elements of innovation.”
Technically speaking, the kit comes in two variants. The authentic version, tailored for performance, features PUMA’s lightweight ULTRAWEAVE fabric and dryCELL moisture-wicking technology to deliver peak athletic function. The replica edition, designed with a more relaxed fit, stands out not just for its style but also for its sustainability credentials. Crafted under PUMA’s RE:FIBRE initiative, it consists of 95% recycled textile waste. This is fashion that performs and protects the planet.
Even the goalkeeper kit received its own dramatic touch: a sleek light blue body punctuated with bold red and black side panels, a unique colorway created exclusively for the men between the sticks. The entire collection debuted in a high-voltage campaign starring the likes of Christian Pulisic, fael Leão, Mike Maignan, Santiago Giménez, and intriguingly, Manchester City’s Kyle Walker–whose appearance in the promo stoked speculation of a permanent move to the Rossoneri.
But as with any bold creative shift, the kit has sparked debate. While many fans are embracing the flaming aesthetic and devilish flair, others have expressed reservations, particularly about the all-red crest, which some purists feel dilutes the club’s traditional look. Despite these mixed reactions, the storytelling behind the design, its technical brilliance, and the sense of occasion surrounding its launch have made it one of the most talked-about drops of the season.
Available now via PUMA, AC Milan’s official store, and select retailers, the 2025/26 home kit will make its first on-pitch appearance on May 24 when Milan closes out their Serie A campaign against Monza. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a fresh convert to the Rossoneri flame, this kit is more than just apparel–it’s a symbol, a statement, and a salute to the legacy that made Milan a global football titan.
