Investing in football jerseys: 3 gems that will increase in value

For a long time, investment was thought to be limited to the stock market, real estate, or luxury watches. But in recent years, a new asset class has been driving up numbers: vintage football shirts.

It's no longer just fabric; it's art. Like sneakers, some shirts bought for €80 ten years ago are now trading for over €300 or €400. But beware: not all shirts are created equal.

At Pure Football Shirts, we daily hunt for rare pieces. Today, we analyze 3 shirts from our current stock to help you understand why they are good investments.

1. The "Killer Detail" Rule: The Mbappé "Mercurial" (2017)

In investment, rarity dictates price. But sometimes, rarity is hidden in a detail that only experts can spot.

Take this PSG 2017-2018 shirt. At first glance, it's a classic. But look at the back:

• The Number: It's N°29. This was Kylian Mbappé's very first season in Paris (a key period for investing in PSG shirts before he took N°7). "Rookie" shirts (first year) are always worth more in the long run.
• The Printing: This isn't the classic Ligue 1 printing. It's the limited edition "Mercurial" (inspired by Nike shoes), used in very few matches.

Investment Verdict: A "First Number" + "Rare Printing" combination on a potential future Ballon d'Or winner. This is a time bomb for collectors.

2. The Icon Rule: Zinedine Zidane (2004-2006)

This is the safe haven. The equivalent of gold on the stock market. Buying a shirt of an absolute football legend carries almost no risk.

This Adidas model of the French National Team (2004-2006 period) represents the end of the Zidane era (to know the value of his other shirts, consult our special Zidane file). This is the design worn during Euro 2004 (the double against England...) and during the qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup.

Investment Verdict: Demand for shirts with Zidane, Ronaldo (R9), or Messi printing will never decrease. On the contrary, as time passes, these pieces become rare relics in excellent condition.

3. The "Pop Culture" Rule: Man City x Oasis (2024)

Do you have to wait 20 years for a shirt to gain value? No. Some models are "future classics" from their release.

This is the case for this Manchester City 2024/25 Fourth kit. Why? Because it was co-designed by Noel Gallagher (from the band Oasis) to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the album Definitely Maybe. The album cover is reproduced in the design!

Investment Verdict: This shirt appeals to two huge audiences: football fans and rock fans. It's the ultimate piece for a sharp Bloke Core look. Once it's no longer sold in stores, its value will skyrocket on the secondary market because it marks an era.

How to spot the next gem?

As you can see, investing in a shirt requires flair. You need to look for the story behind the fabric.

At Pure Football Shirts, we do this selection work for you. Whether you're looking for security with an Authentic shirt (see our Authentic vs Replica guide) or a rare vintage piece, you're in the right place.

Want to start your collection? Take a look at our latest arrivals before they disappear.