Aston Villa, one of the most storied clubs in English football, has a rich history filled with triumphs and challenges. Following their relegation from the Premier League at the end of the 2015-16 season, Villa faced a difficult few years in the Championship. However, this period also brought about some memorable kits that resonate deeply with the fans. In this article, we’ll explore the best Aston Villa football shirts worn during their Championship years, highlighting their design, significance, and the emotional connections they forged with supporters.

1. 2016-17 Home Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: Claret with blue accents.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: The 2016-17 home kit featured a traditional claret base with contrasting blue sleeves and collar. The simplicity of the design, complemented by a subtle pattern, made it a standout choice for fans.

Significance

This kit marked Aston Villa football shirts first season in the Championship after a long-standing presence in the Premier League. Despite finishing mid-table, this shirt became a symbol of hope and resilience for fans. It represented a fresh start for the club, as supporters filled Villa Park with optimism, hoping to see their team back in the top flight soon.

2. 2017-18 Away Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: White with claret and blue detailing.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: The away kit for the 2017-18 season showcased a clean, modern design. The predominantly white shirt featured claret and blue stripes on the shoulders and a stylish collar.

Significance

This season was pivotal for Villa as they reached the playoffs, demonstrating a marked improvement from the previous year. The away kit was worn during crucial matches, including the playoff semi-finals against Middlesbrough, where Villa emerged victorious. The shirt became synonymous with determination, reflecting the club’s ambitions to return to the Premier League.

3. 2018-19 Home Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: Traditional claret with blue sleeves.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: The 2018-19 home kit combined a classic design with modern touches. It featured a traditional look with a prominent collar and a fitted silhouette, appealing to players and fans alike.

Significance

This season was monumental for Aston Villa as they achieved promotion back to the Premier League after winning the playoff final against Derby County. The home kit became an emblem of triumph, embodying the spirit of the club and the passionate support from fans throughout the season. Wearing this kit during their victorious campaign at Wembley solidified its status in the hearts of Villa supporters.

4. 2018-19 Third Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: Bright yellow with blue accents.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: This bold third kit featured a vibrant yellow base with striking blue details. The unique design made it a fan favorite, offering a refreshing change from the traditional colors.

Significance

The 2018-19 third kit was worn during several key matches, adding flair to Villa's campaign. It represented the club's willingness to embrace innovation while still respecting its heritage. Fans loved the bold choice, and the kit became a symbol of Villa's exciting style of play during their promotion journey.

5. 2019-20 Home Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: Claret with blue detailing.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: This kit continued the traditional claret and blue theme, featuring a more modern design with a stylish pattern and fitted look that resonated with players and supporters.

Significance

The 2019-20 season saw Aston Villa return to the Premier League after their Championship triumph. The home kit was worn during the early stages of their top-flight campaign, symbolizing the club's return to elite football. Fans donned this kit with pride, celebrating the journey back to the Premier League and hoping for a successful season ahead.

6. 2020-21 Away Kit

Design

• Color Scheme: Navy blue with claret detailing.
• Manufacturer: Kappa.
• Features: A sleek and contemporary design, this away kit embraced a darker palette, emphasizing a modern aesthetic while staying true to the club's identity.

Significance

The 2020-21 away kit became a staple for fans as they supported their team during their Premier League campaign. Its stylish look resonated with supporters, making it a sought-after item in their collections. The kit represented a fresh start and a commitment to competing at the highest level, showcasing the club's aspirations for continued success.

Conclusion

Aston Villa’s Championship years were filled with challenges, but the kits worn during this period have become cherished symbols of resilience, hope, and the unwavering support of the Villa faithful. From the classic claret and blue home kits to the vibrant away and third designs, each shirt tells a story of the club's journey and the fans' passionate commitment. As Aston Villa continues to aim for greatness, these kits will forever hold a special place in the hearts of supporters, celebrating the spirit and legacy of Aston Villa Football Club.