Why Jude Bellingham and Leroy Sané Wear Cut Socks at the World Cup — The Surprising Reason Behind Football’s Viral Trend
Football fans have noticed a strange trend at the World Cup, with players like Jude Bellingham and Leroy Sané wearing socks with holes cut into the back. The move is believed to improve comfort and reduce muscle pressure, but medical experts are not fully convinced by the theory.
June 26, 2026: Have you noticed the unusual socks worn by players like Jude Bellingham and Leroy Sané at the World Cup? A closer look at the back of their socks reveals large holes and cuts, almost as if they had been sliced with scissors. It may look odd at first, but there is a growing reason behind the trend.
The same thing was seen in Australia’s match against the United States, where several players also wore cut socks. According to The Athletic, the main reason is comfort. Modern football socks are usually made from polyester, a material that is durable and water-resistant but can also feel tight and restrictive during movement.
Many players believe that cutting the back of the socks helps reduce pressure on the calf muscles, improves blood circulation, lowers the risk of cramping, and gives them more freedom while running. It is a player-led adjustment aimed at making movement feel more natural during matches.
The answer is not as complicated, or strange, as you might think.
Some players believe that snipping the material can release the pressure on their calves and help them move more freely about the pitch.
Burnley defender Kyle Walker, who recently retired from international… pic.twitter.com/ab9EZakWD6
— USA TODAY Sports (@usatodaysports) June 23, 2026
Why players are cutting their football socks
However, not everyone agrees that the method actually works. Medical experts have questioned the benefit of cutting socks. Raj Brar, a doctor at 3CB Performance, explained that there is no clear medical evidence proving that cutting socks reduces pressure or improves blood flow. In fact, compression socks are usually designed for recovery off the field, helping to reduce swelling and improve circulation after matches.
Former Hummel chief executive Alan Vad Nielsen also offered another explanation. He said some football socks are made very tight so the branding remains visible and the fit stays firm. But with new technology, many brands are now adding better cushioning, mesh panels and compression zones to make socks more breathable and comfortable without players needing to cut them.
The trend has also drawn criticism from former players. Ex-England defender Gary Neville was among those who questioned it. Speaking on his podcast in 2024, Neville said players already receive multiple custom-made boots and should also be able to get properly fitted socks from sponsors. In his view, cutting them should not be necessary at the highest level.
Still, despite the criticism, the trend is becoming harder to ignore. Whether it is based on science or simply personal comfort, more footballers are clearly willing to alter their gear if they feel it gives them an edge on the pitch.
