AZ Alkmaar

Narrower than it looks

Two things to know before searching. First, the range begins in the early 2000s: the 1981 title season is not represented. Second, training wear takes up at least as much space as home and away shirts combined.

Tracksuits, warm-up tops and bench jackets therefore account for a substantial share of what is listed. That explains the low prices, but it can disappoint if you expected league kit. The red and white home shirt remains the most wanted line, with good coverage of recent European campaigns.

The club behind the initials

Alkmaar Zaanstreek was formed in 1967 through the merger of Alkmaar ’54 and FC Zaanstreek. Since AZ is already the abbreviation of Alkmaar Zaanstreek, the name “AZ Alkmaar” is strictly a tautology — common outside the Netherlands, but a tautology nonetheless.

The club has won two league titles, in 1981 and 2009, along with four domestic cups, and reached the UEFA Cup final in 1980-81. A respectable record without being a giant’s, which is why prices stay accessible compared with Ajax or PSV.

Before you order

The 1-10 grade describes wear only. On a range this recent most items sit at the top of the scale.

Always check the item type before ordering: jackets and shorts appear in the same listing as the shirts.