Why Are Football Players Leaving Nike? The Surprising Shift in Sponsorship

👉Nike, historically a running company, was late to the football market but made a strong push in the 90s, signing famous players and the Brazilian national team.

🔍Nike's strategy focused on signing not only the best players but also the most players, with the aim of establishing itself as an authentic football brand.

💸The decision for players like Neymar, Sterling, and Lewandowski to leave Nike is likely due to financial reasons, as they may have demanded more than Nike was willing to pay.

🌍Nike is shifting its strategy to focus on the next generation of football players, signing young talents like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé.

⚽️The COVID-19 pandemic has also impacted the sportswear industry, causing brands to streamline their budgets and save money wherever possible.

Why did Neymar leave Nike?

—Neymar's departure from Nike can be attributed to financial reasons, as he may have demanded more than Nike was willing to pay. Additionally, he may have wanted to step out of Ronaldo's shadow and be the main star at Puma.

Are all Nike players leaving the brand?

—No, not all Nike players are leaving the brand. Nike is still signing and betting their money on young talents like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé.

Is the COVID-19 pandemic the sole reason for the shift in sponsorships?

—While the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the sportswear industry, causing brands to streamline their budgets, the shift in sponsorships is likely a strategic move by Nike to focus on the next generation of football players.

Why is Nike focusing on young talents?

—Nike is focusing on young talents because they represent the future of football. By signing and investing in these players, Nike can establish long-term relationships and benefit from their potential success and marketability.

Will Nike lose its position as the biggest sportswear company?

—While Nike may be losing some high-profile players, they still have the biggest share of players in the top European leagues. Additionally, Nike's strategic focus on young talents suggests they are positioning themselves for future success.

00:00In September 2020, Neymar left Nike, his longtime sponsor, to join Puma, sparking a debate in the football community.

01:12Nike historically focused on running and was late to the football market.

02:22Nike's strategy focused on signing not only the best players but also the most players to establish itself as an authentic football brand.

04:22Players like Neymar, Sterling, and Lewandowski may have left Nike for financial reasons.

05:56Nike is shifting its strategy to focus on young talents like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé.

06:51The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the shift in sponsorships, causing brands to streamline their budgets.

08:31Nike's decision to let established players go is a strategic move to focus on the next generation of football players.