Counterfeit football shirts are common online, and a poor-quality fake can disappoint fast. This guide walks through practical checks you can make before and after buying so you know what you are getting. These are general guidelines rather than guarantees, but they will help you shop more confidently.

Check the seller first

The single most useful step is buying from a seller with a clear returns policy, a secure checkout and visible contact details. Prices that look far below everything else on the market are a common warning sign. A trustworthy store will be transparent about what it sells and how returns work.

Inspect the stitching and badges

• Crest and badges should be neatly applied and centred, with no loose threads.
• Seams should be straight and even rather than wavy.
• Lettering and numbers should be cleanly finished.

Look at the tags and fabric

Quality shirts have clear, legible tags and a fabric that feels right for a sports jersey rather than thin or papery. Blurry printing on tags is a red flag.

Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest way to avoid a fake?

Buy from a seller with a clear returns policy and secure checkout, and be cautious of prices far below the market.

Can I return a shirt if I am not happy with the quality?

It depends on the store. Check the returns policy before buying. At ElevenKick you can review our policy on the Return & Refund Policy page.

Shop with confidence

Browse authentic-quality jerseys across our full shop, including retro classics and current club kits.

Want a safe place to start? Shop the Manchester United 1999 Retro Jersey and browse authentic-quality kits across the store.