The “Definitive” Ranking of Nike Elite Teams

Nike’s 23-24th Third Kits were released today and shed light on how the brand views its best teams.

In the first place, it is vital to remember that there’s not an officially recognized ranking for Nike’s Elite Teams. But, there are plenty of clues that can lead to the development of a list of Nike’s most successful teams.

NIKE RANKING OF EUROPEAN ELITE FOOTBALL TEAMS

Overall, Nike have 10 top men’s elite teams. Seven are located in Europe Three teams are located in the Middle/South American region (Corinthians, Club America, Pumas). Each of these teams is likely to have directly contact with Nike’s headquarters.

The Vaporknit Match versions of the third kits are exclusive in five different teams: Barcelona, PSG, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham. They are also available for Atletico Madrid as well as Inter Milan are only available as stadium kits.

In addition, Tottenham also seem to fall below Nike’s most elite teams. Spurs didn’t receive the custom-designed shirt for their pre-match in the current season, however they must have their own design shared along with Inter as well as Leipzig.

The three teams of Barcelona, Liverpool, and PSG have even more in the league, sporting unique logos (FC Barcelona), fourth kits (Barcelona and PSG) as well as collaborations together with Jordan (PSG)/LeBron (Liverpool) as well as exclusive kitted out in knits (FC Barcelona).

While teams such as Atletico Madrid as well as Galatasaray have a lower level than Tottenham. Players still wear genuine Nike Vaporknit jerseys, however their supporters are not able to purchase these jerseys (Galatasaray also use the the knit technology from last season, strangely).

IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO BUY THE KITS OF NIKE’S AMERICAN TOP TEAMS IN EUROPE THIS SEASON

The Nike Elite teams outside of Europe are privileged to have the top equipment and kits. Nike sells Vaporknit jerseys to Corinthians, Pumas, and Club America. These teams, however, aren’t as prominent internationally. The current season, contrary to the previous season it’s not possible to purchase the kit of Corinthians, Pumas, and Club America in Europe.Both Galatasaray as well as Leipzig don’t have one of Nike’s slim 23-24th kit – both are lower than those of the international teams Corinthians, Pumas, and Club America.

In the end it is clear that the Nike hierarchy is determined by revenues and sales, and it is clearly outlined by each team’s contracts. Barcelona appear to be the greatest deal out among all teams, as the club getting the templates for next season 6 months ahead of time the number one spot in our list.

Nike Elite Teams Europe – Ranking

1. FC Barcelona
2. Paris Saint-Germain
3. Liverpool
4. Chelsea
5. Tottenham
6. Inter Milan
7. Atletico Madrid
8. Leipzig (half-Elite team from 21-22)
9. Galatasaray (were repeatedly downgraded the new contract could offer better standing

Do you believe Nike will continue to diversify the ways they deal with their top teams?