The German national football team took to the field in Milan on March 20, 2025, donning a unique anniversary jersey as they faced Italy in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals. Preceding this match, much excitement had been brewing over the commemorative shirt, which celebrates the Deutscher Fußball-Bund's (DFB) 125th birthday this year.
The special jersey pays homage to the retro design worn during the 1974 World Cup when Germany triumphed on home soil. This design features a nostalgic white background with black trimming, reminiscent of the classic attire sported by iconic players such as Franz Beckenbauer during their victorious campaign. "Das Design des Jubiläumstrikots beruht auf dem Retro-Trikot von 1974, dem Jahr, in dem die deutsche Männer-Nationalmannschaft die Heim-Weltmeisterschaft gewann," (The design of the anniversary jersey is based on the retro jersey from 1974, the year in which the German men's national team won the home World Cup), stated the DFB on its official website.
Excitement surrounding the jersey peaked as the match day approached, with fans taking to social media to express their enthusiasm. Julian Nagelsmann, the team manager, praised the design, saying, "Ich finde es schlicht, aber sehr gelungen" (I find it simple but very well done). Social media comments from eager fans reflected their admiration as well: "Bitte nur noch damit spielen" (Please only play in this shirt) echoed throughout platforms, showcasing the love for the new kit.
However, the jubilation was tinged with a bittersweet note due to the announcement of a mourning band worn in honor of Doris Fitschen, a former national player who passed away from cancer on March 15, 2025, at the age of 56. Fitschen was a notable figure in women's football, having represented Germany in 144 international matches and participated in significant tournaments. The DFB indicated that a minute of silence will be observed before the second leg of the match, to be held on March 23, 2025, in Dortmund.
As fans witnessed their beloved national team don the new jersey, they were also reminded of a looming change; the DFB will switch its gear supplier from Adidas to Nike in 2027. While some fans reveled in the joyous nostalgia presented by the jersey, they lamented the upcoming transition. Comments such as, "Schade, dass wir bald zu Nike wechseln müssen" (It's a pity that we will soon switch to Nike) were prevalent as fans took the opportunity to voice their contentment for this limited-edition jersey while expressing sadness over the shift.
The new jersey is not merely a piece of clothing but an emblem of heritage and history that echoes significant triumphs of the past. Notably, the classic eagle crest that typically adorns the jersey has been replaced by a specially embroidered crest commemorating the DFB's 125th anniversary. This alteration adds a unique flair to an already rich tapestry of German football tradition, as mentioned by the DFB: "Die Brustpartie des Trikots ziert das Trefoil-Logo von Adidas und ein speziell gesticktes Wappen zum 125-jährigen Jubiläum des DFB" (The chest area of the jersey is adorned with the Trefoil logo of Adidas and a specially embroidered crest for the DFB's 125th anniversary).
Fans wishing to own the new jersey can purchase it starting March 17, 2025, for prices ranging from 75 EUR for children’s short sleeves to 110 EUR for adults' long sleeves. The sales are expected to be brisk, particularly given the limited nature and nostalgic design of the piece.
This Nations League quarter-final marks a crucial juncture for the German team—striving not only to advance in the tournament but also to create bonds through the shared experience of wearing a shirt that connects the present to the glorious past.
As the players prepare for what promises to be an exciting clash on the pitch, they step out wearing a jersey that encapsulates their legacy—a reflection of the pride, passion, and profound history of the DFB. The anticipation now builds, culminating in the hope not just for victory, but also for celebration and remembrance during the journey through this anniversary year.
