If you’ve longed for the day where friends could tap their phones to your clothes to unlock exclusive digital experiences then you’re going to love this: EA Sports FC 26, in collaboration with Puma and Manchester City, has announced a new football kit that does just that.
The special-edition Manchester City first team football kit features a custom NFC chip embedded directly into the shirt’s club crest. By tapping a smartphone to the crest, fans can unlock exclusive digital experiences and in-game rewards in EA Sports FC 26, along with surprises from both Manchester City and PUMA.
The Manchester City men’s first team will wear the kit in select UEFA Champions League away fixtures, starting against Villarreal on 21st October, while the women’s team will debut the shirt in select domestic matches throughout the season.
James Taylor, Director of Football Partnerships at EA Sports FC said:
“Football shirts hold a special place in the game – they’re symbols of identity, pride and belonging. That same spirit is at the heart of EA SPORTS FC 26, with significant importance on our community. That’s why we’re honoured to collaborate with Manchester City and PUMA on a kit design that respects tradition whilst opening up new ways to connect with football.”
Speaking on the collaboration, Manchester City Women’s goalkeeper Khiara Keating said:
“I think FC has brought it to life really well, it feels really unique. You can especially see it in the game, like all the triangles. It’s different, but in a really cool way.
“It’s a limited edition and then being able to wear it in-game as well makes it even better. It’s not just a purchase, they can see it on the game as well.”
The kit will be available to purchase from PUMA.com, Manchester City Official Stores and select retailers worldwide from the 15th October.
EA Sports FC 26 is available now on PC, Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
