Why do so many footballers cut holes in their socks?

Have you seen so many footballers cut holes in their socks, these days? Well, like all top athletes, footballers are always looking to improve their performance and find an edge over the competition.

That insatiable desire for even the slightest possible advantage manifests itself in many different ways, including socks with holes cut into the back of them. It’s become a trend that players all over the world now follow, including Premier League stars like Bukayo Saka, Kyle Walker, Joelinton and Mykhailo Mudryk.

But why do players actively ruin their own kit in a bid to improve their game?

Why do footballers cut holes in their socks?

For each game, players typically wear a new pair of socks, which can feel tight and restrictive, particularly for those with large calves. The theory behind this recent trend is that the holes will help relieve pressure on the player’s calf muscles, allowing for better circulation and reducing the risk of cramp.

Some players cut just one or two large holes in their socks, while others cut several smaller ones, but the intended benefit is the same.

Although the effectiveness of this rather unusual pre-game ritual is up for debate, perception can be just as important as reality. If a player feels more comfortable on the pitch, and as though a potential issue has been addressed, then they may well perform better regardless of any measurable improvement in their condition.

In the modern era, clubs devote so much time, effort and money into doing whatever they can to make players happy and help them achieve the best results.

That can mean big bonuses, elaborate diet plans, support with childcare, or something else entirely, like a simple pair of scissors and a willing kitman.