MLS Introduces Kit Debut Patches - What Happens to The Kits Afterward Is Disgusting
Feb 22, 2024, by Chris
- New Debut Patches: MLS is introducing "Debut Patches" for players making their first appearance in the league in 2024.
- Patch Removal: After a player's debut match, the patch will be removed from their jersey and sent to Topps to be included in a collectible trading card.
- Fanatics Collaboration: The Debut Patches program is a collaboration with Fanatics Collectibles, who own Topps.
Major League Soccer today introduced a first in football - Debut Patches, to be featured on kits of players that make their MLS debut.
MLS Debut Badge to Feature on Kits Of Every Player Making His Debut
The MLS Debut Patch will be placed on the kit of each player making his debut in the 2024 season. The MLS Debut Patch is simple, featuring the word "Debut" and the MLS logo.
The badge is removed from the shirt for trading cards
What happens after a player debuted the kit is, however, horrendous. The debut badge will be removed and placed on a collectible trading card!
This is because the MLS Debut Patches have been created with Fanatics Collectibles, who own Topps. The debut shirt itself won't have the patch anymore.
The patches will be worn by all players making their debut, including newcomers and homegrown players. Equipment managers will apply the patch to the player's jersey, and after the match, they will send the patch to Topps for insertion into a 1/1 Topps trading card.
What do you think of removing the debut patch after the match to make it a trading card? Should they instead offer the matchworn kit with the badge? Let us know in the comments below.
Adidas Argentina Messi Farewell Kit Teased
Adidas and the Argentine Football Association have teased a special-edition commemorative jersey celebrating Lionel Messi for his final appearance with the national team. Following the announcement of his retirement from international duty after a legendary career spanning 207 caps and 125 goals, Messi is set to wear the bespoke design in his farewell match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental on October 6, 2026.
The unique kit departs from the traditional striping format, opting for a sky-blue base accented by a single broad white central stripe. Tonal rays inspired by the Sun of May radiate across the front and back of the torso. In a rare personal touch, Messi's signature 'M' logo replaces the traditional Adidas performance logo on the right chest in metallic gold, balanced by the gold-accented three-star Argentina crest on the left. The crew-neck collar and sleeve cuffs are finished in black with sleek gold edging.
On the reverse, the shirt features gold 'MESSI 10' printing framed by the radiant sunburst motif, topped by a small Sun of May emblem just below the rear collar. Messi previewed the shirt on social media with the message "One last match... A jersey for a lifetime," offering a fitting tribute as he prepares to close his historic international chapter.
