The number that lines the inside of the SoccerBible Magazine is a treasured placement for the creative game. An illustrated serving that summarises the essence of the issue, as we headed to 'Northern Quarters' we enlisted Manchester based designer TJ Nicklin to craft and celebrate just some of the shapes synonymous with the game from the north of England.
Showing a visual breakdown, you can see the inspiration that brings this piece of abstract football flavour together. The iconic kits of the '90's, where heavy shapes were essential, lines much of this number. When you think of iconic no.7s that champion a creative game, Eric Cantona is never far out of site ― especially when the north of England is concerned. Having set two stages alight in the shape of Leeds United and Manchester United, it is those two giants and their retro kits in an inaugural Premier League decade that have inspired the design.
The '90's was awash with rave culture, big sounds and a fresh fashion scene that embodied street and leisurewear. Football wasn't exempt from this and the shapes found their way onto kits forming a glorious colour wheel that measures up alongside any kaleidoscope. Both adidas and Umbro were integral to this era and a lasting legacy for the game that will live on. It is that feeling that is captured in the pages of the design. A time capsule of football shapes, colours and typography.
SoccerBible Magazine Issue 7 'Northern Quarters' is available here.
