*Undated
Adidas have launched Mohamed Salah’s first-ever signature boot ahead of the 2022 African Cup of Nations. But good luck getting your hands on a pair.
Only 1069 of the limited-edition ‘Prepare For Battle’ X Speedflow MS.1 boots will be released worldwide. Why 1069? Because 69 is the number of goals the 29-year-old striker needs to reach to become Egypt’s top goal scorer.
The stunning boot takes graphic inspiration from the 2014 Battle Pack and features gold, black, and red prints. The back of the shoe showcases his nickname ‘MO’ on the left boot accompanied by a crown on the right boot to anoint Liverpool’s ‘Egyptian King.’
Each pair also includes a unique edition number imprinted on the heel below Salah’s golden crown logo.
Salah led the Premier League in goals and assists in 2021 with 35 contributions, 12 more than Harry Kane.
Senegalese main man Sadio Mane also hasn't been left out when it comes to some flushy cleats come Afcon's grand opening. Beginning with the scintillating Senegalese International, Mane’s boots supplied by sponsor New Balance are a custom version of the ‘Furon v6’.
The modifications are nifty additions that make it tournament ready. The boots are doused in orange and adorned with blue and red graphics. Thematically, the graphics follow Mane’s nickname ‘Lion’ and include a splash art at the heel consisting of his signature lion logo.
The logo is emblazoned with the phrase ‘The Lion Roars’ and also displays the Liverpool forwards initials and shirt number.
The vivid blend of colours make the boot a sight to behold, a custom soleplate further adds to its splendour. The soleplate showcases illustrations of the forward at the peak of his powers whilst donning his nation’s shirt.
The two African stars now have the boots to match their mercurial talents, and the prospect of the two facing off against each other is surely an exciting one.