1995 Season Italian Home Ground

In 1995, this home jersey accompanied the Italian national team through its transitional period following their runner-up finish at the 1994 World Cup, serving as a pivotal symbol bridging the “Baggio era” and a new generation of players. During the European Championship qualifying campaign, the team showcased resilience in friendly matches wearing this kit: defeating European powerhouse Portugal 1-0 and staging a 2-1 comeback against Eastern European rival Croatia, continuing their classic counter-attacking style. Though Roberto Baggio had recently transferred to AC Milan, he remained a core national team selection. Alongside Maldini and Albertini, they formed a central axis capable of both attack and defense. In matches like the 1-1 away draw against Slovenia and the 3-0 home victory over Estonia, they preserved the heritage of a traditional powerhouse while refining tactical details for future competitions. Though this season saw no major tournament appearances, it became a crucial period for Italy to refine its lineup and complete the generational transition.
Crafted by Nike, this home jersey pioneered the modern design era for Italy's “Azzurri,” featuring a deep, rich classic blue as its dominant hue—a perfect resonance with national symbolism and team tradition.
It stands as a vital testament to Italy's football evolution from the “World Cup runner-up squad” to a new generation, carrying the luminous legacy of legends like Baggio and Maldini during this transitional phase—a legacy distinct from their major tournament jerseys. This transitional home jersey holds exceptional historical continuity value. It fills a critical gap in mid-90s Italian football retro collections while serving as an emotional tribute to Nike's early partnership with the national team. Witnessing pivotal moments in the careers of legends like Baggio, it stands out for both its historical significance and collectible worth.