Italy 2018–19 Home Shirt (Authentic Version) – Authenticity Guide
The Italy 2018–19 Home Shirt, manufactured by Puma, introduced a refreshed identity for the Azzurri following their failure to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. This Authentic evoKNIT version represents Puma’s top-spec release, worn by players during UEFA Nations League fixtures and Euro 2020 qualifiers. Known issues include confusion with the replica version, missing inner FIGC details, and knock-offs lacking the textured renaissance-inspired pattern across the torso.
Shirt Overview
- Team: Italy
- Season: 2018–19
- Type: Home Shirt (Authentic / Player Issue)
- Manufacturer: Puma
- Main Colours: Royal blue with navy trim
- Competition Use: UEFA Nations League, Euro 2020 Qualifiers
- Available Versions: Short sleeve only
- Retail Release: October 2018
Design Details
- Lightweight evoKNIT fabric with engineered seamless ventilation zones
- Sublimated renaissance-inspired pattern woven into front torso panel
- Navy stretch collar with taped interior finish
- Heat-applied Puma logos on chest and sleeves
- Italy crest with three stars and gold trim, heat-bonded on left chest
- Italian flag printed at upper back collar
- “dryCELL” technology marking at lower hem
- Supplied in a sealed plastic Puma bag with official barcode tags attached
Variants and Notes
- Replica Version: Uses thicker material, embroidered logos, no evoKNIT or mesh construction
- Player Issue Authentic: Slim, athletic fit with laser-cut holes under arms and bonded seams
- Youth Kits: Typically replica cut and may lack textured torso design
- Printing Used: Blocky sans-serif typeface in navy with white trim for match-worn shirts
Player Info
| Player | Appearances (2018–19) |
|---|---|
| Jorginho | 10 |
| Gianluigi Donnarumma | 9 |
| Leonardo Bonucci | 8 |
| Ciro Immobile | 7 |
| Federico Chiesa | 9 |
| Lorenzo Insigne | 8 |
| Alessandro Florenzi | 7 |
| Marco Verratti | 6 |
Season Summary
Italy wore this shirt as they entered a rebuilding phase under new coach Roberto Mancini. During the UEFA Nations League campaign, they finished second in a group featuring Portugal and Poland. The shirt also featured in early matches of the Euro 2020 qualifying campaign, laying the groundwork for what would become a European Championship-winning squad just two years later. The updated crest and shirt design signaled a return to classic values with a progressive, performance-driven aesthetic.
Final Notes
At Shirtchecker.com, our goal is to help collectors visually authenticate football shirts using accurate design cues and trusted visual references. The Italy 2018–19 Home Shirt in its Authentic evoKNIT form stands out for its lightweight construction, minimalist elegance, and subtle cultural detail. Key identifiers include the embossed torso pattern, heat-applied Puma and crest, and the presence of official hangtags and packaging.
