The first round of the Champions League always brings surprises, but this year, one of the most intriguing developments was the debut of C.P. Company as the official formalwear partner for Manchester City. This collaboration marks the Italian brand’s first official foray into the world of football, transitioning from its longstanding status as a favourite among fans on the terraces to making its mark on the pitch.
Both Manchester City and Bologna showcased the new formalwear, with C.P. Company dressing City’s players for their Champions League matches and, unexpectedly, Bologna for their first appearance in the tournament in over sixty years. At the Dall’Ara Stadium, Bologna’s squad made an understated statement, wearing crewneck sweatshirts, cargo pants, and windbreakers adorned with C.P. Company’s iconic circular badge. Unlike City, Bologna’s partnership was kept under wraps, even as they faced Shakhtar Donetsk, leaving the nature of their collaboration somewhat mysterious.
Meanwhile, Manchester City fully embraced the partnership, featuring garments emblazoned with the club’s logo worn by players like İlkay Gündoğan, including polo shirts and technical jackets. These exclusive items, likely to remain bespoke for the players and not sold to the public, echo past collaborations like OFF-WHITE’s work with AC Milan.
The significance of this partnership extends beyond mere clothing. After years of being a cult favourite within Terrace Culture, C.P. Company has officially entered the football arena. Interestingly, this debut coincided with Manchester City wearing a special kit inspired by Oasis’ iconic debut album, Definitely Maybe, creating a seamless connection between British pop culture, football fans, and the players themselves.
Founded in 1971 by Massimo Osti, C.P. Company began as a brand known for its innovative approach to fabric and design. Osti was a pioneer in the use of technical fabrics and garment dyeing, techniques that revolutionised the fashion industry. C.P. Company is particularly noted for its use of materials such as “Millefleur” and “GORE-TEX,” which combine functionality with style. The brand quickly gained popularity within the terrace culture of the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a staple among football fans seeking both fashion and performance.
Osti’s vision didn’t stop with C.P. Company; he also founded Stone Island in 1982, which further cemented his legacy in the fashion world. Stone Island is renowned for its military-inspired designs and innovative fabrics, such as “Tela Stella” and “Laminated Nylon,” which enhance both aesthetics and functionality. The close ties between the two brands highlight Osti’s influence on contemporary menswear, merging high-quality craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
Established in 1880 as St. Mark’s (West Gorton), Manchester City has a rich and storied history in English football. The club changed its name to Manchester City in 1894 and has since become one of the most successful clubs in the Premier League era. With a passionate fan base and notable achievements, including multiple league titles and domestic cups, City has transformed into a global brand, especially following significant investments in recent years.
Bologna FC, founded in 1909, is one of the oldest football clubs in Italy. The club has a rich history, boasting multiple Serie A titles and a strong presence in Italian football. Notably, Bologna is also the birthplace of Stone Island, another iconic Italian brand known for its innovative designs and technical fabrics. This connection further cements Bologna’s status as a cultural hub in Italy, bridging the worlds of football and fashion.
As C.P. Company continues its journey into the football realm, its partnerships with clubs like Manchester City and Bologna illustrate a unique convergence of style, sport, and cultural heritage. With the influence of Massimo Osti woven into the fabric of both brands, this collaboration marks a significant moment in the intersection of fashion and football.
