Disappointing design choices and badge alterations spark frustration as fans weigh in on the Cherries’ new Europa League look. Is this a branding masterstroke or a visual disaster?
This afternoon, many AFC Bournemouth fans were left bewildered and confused at the notification that an entirely different kit has been released for when Cherries play their Europa League games.
The initial scepticism was greeted with an overriding feeling of excitement that Vitality had listened to the criticism around the 'blob' being used to showcase their sponsor on all of AFCB's kits this season, and maybe the change of kit was going to be a pleasant surprise ahead of what is set to be the most memorable week in recent Bournemouth history.
Instead, the taste that was left after seeing what changes had been made to the kit was rather sour. On top of that, I was left with many questions, most of which have still been left unanswered. Was there any need for this change to happen? Why has the original Bournemouth badge been changed to an off brand black badge? Has anyone done this before? Is it even an improvement on what was released 2 months ago?
If Vitality were going for a publicity stunt in order to get people to speak about their company name, then they have hit the nail on the head. But when you think of it, will anyone see these 2 miserable attempts of a front of shirt sponsor and be swayed to change their life insurance policy to one of Vitality?
Since the sponsor related uproar has become widespread, many fans have been asking for sponsor less versions of this season's kits, or even the chance to purchase the Women's team kits, of which are sponsored by Bournemouth University. If you needed further clarification, the Women's team kit does not have a multicoloured blob promoting the University on the front of it.
A positive to take from this seasons kit releases, is that both the pink sponsor and the white circle will certainly be memorable, and maybe even for a good reason if Cherries can defy the odds yet again and create history on the pitch.
Reuters/Matthew ChildsThe addition of a collar looks smart, yet the judgement of how that looks in person will have to wait until Thursday. Another positive is that the longer sleeves look smart, and make the kit look more well rounded.
It also remains unknown if this change of sponsor will be utilised when Cherries play in their away & 3rd kit in fixtures that need a change of kit in the Europa League, but if the change carries over there is serious potential for the 3rd kit to look considerably better with a white on white combination, as opposed to a pink on white with the original sponsor.
A change was needed, but was this the way to go? I am not so sure!
