Football Follies
Ah, what a delightful and whimsical challenge has been laid before us on the global football stage! The Belgian National Team's TinTin-inspired kits have truly set a high bar for creativity and nostalgia. But I must ask, where does the madness end? Country kits have always been a source of pride; however, Belgian footballers will now look like they didn’t have time to fully change between the pitch and their day job at UPS. The only positive is that Kevin de Bruyne will fit right in if he decides to let his hair grow back.
So now that the gauntlet has been thrown, where do we go next? Sit down, strap in, and hold on…
USA - SpongeBob SquarePants: Imagine the sight of the USA's national team stepping onto the field in vibrant yellow jerseys adorned with the Krusty Krab as kit sponsor, and accompanied by shorts in a bold shade of blue reminiscent of the ocean depths of Bikini Bottom. But let's not forget the socks, which could feature playful designs like Krabby Patties or jellyfish. It's a kit that's sure to make a splash!
England - Dennis the Menace (from Beano): Picture the English players donning red and black striped jerseys reminiscent of Dennis's mischievous jumper from The Beano, paired with shorts in classic black with red accents. But beware, opponents may find themselves facing not just a skilled team, but also a squad of players who are experts in causing havoc on the pitch with their antics (and slingshots)!
Canada - Caillou: Canada's national team takes a very polite, yet whimsical turn with kits inspired by the beloved children's character Caillou. Picture the players in bright yellow jerseys reflecting Caillou's bald head, paired with royal blue shorts symbolizing his signature blue pants. The socks could even feature small illustrations of Caillou's favorite toys, like dinosaurs, adding an extra touch of childhood nostalgia to the ensemble.
France - Asterix: Mais oui! The French team strides onto the field in jerseys adorned with golden Celtic patterns reminiscent of Asterix's adventures in Gaul, complemented by shorts in a deep blue hue with white accents. The socks could feature symbols of Gaulish resistance, such as helmets or shields, adding a touch of historical flair to the kit.
Honestly, I had to stop here; while the possibilities are endless, my knowledge of children’s comics worldwide is not. And while the thought of Erling Haaland in a Hagar the Horrible-inspired kit is awesome, even I know that Hagar is an American creation. So step it up my foreign friends, and email me with that showcase piece for your favorite country. After all, in the world of football, anything is possible; however, it may still be a bad idea.
