Nike continue their 2018/19 third shirt releases with another graphic design on the Chelsea jersey. Dropping in time for the first round of European fixtures after the international break, the third shirt arrives in light blue with home comfort inspiration.

Featuring the DNA of the club threaded throughout the jersey, the 18/19 third strip uses a dynamic textural print on the shirt’s centre. At first glance it looks like a nice little contemporary pattern, but is actually an aerial depiction of Stamford Bridge and its surrounding area. The new third kit will be worn during the club’s European campaign this season.

It's a theme that Nike have rolled out across a number of their club's third shirts with Tottenham, Man City and Atletico Madrid all wearing alternative designs the feature the aerial maps of their respective surroundings. The 2018/19 Chelsea third shirt is matched with teal blue shorts and crimson socks.

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There is an extra feature to the Chelsea 18/19 third shirt that's a bit special. The jersey uses NikeConnect technology for the very first time on a football jersey. It enables fans to access product, customized content and exclusive experiences by connecting through the Nike app with the NikeConnect logo on the shirt label – bringing fans closer to the club.

The technology has been used by Nike with NBA teams, but comes to football for the first time with Chelsea. Clever, eh?

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Shop the full Chelsea 2018/19 replica collection at prodirectsoccer.com