Using a new collection created with the Art of Football [AoF] to pay homage to the brand’s early 00s football adverts, Pepsi has announced Real Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Jr as its newest global ambassador, following in the footsteps of compatriot and inspiration, Ronaldinho.

Pepsi and football have a long and nostalgic relationship, thanks to over two decades of iconic football campaigns. Dotted as it is with a host of superstars, skills and cameos, the latest TV ad, ‘Nutmeg Royale’, is a throwback to some of the brand’s most memorable TV spots from the early 00s, which sees global superstars such as Beckham, Henry, Totti, Roberto Carlos, and of course, Ronaldinho, running through train stations, medieval battlefields and more.

Well, that was 20 years ago, and in homage to that era, Pepsi brought the creative folklore of the Art of Football on board to create a collection that just so happened to be the perfect springboard to announce the brand’s new global ambassador: Vinicius Jr.

The Pepsi x [AoF] collection follows on from last year’s collection created with Golden Cabane and features retro-inspired products that pay homage to Pepsi’s iconic football league, which first debuted 20 years ago. Co-branded accessories in the collection include bucket hats, shoulder bags and totes, while the collection is completed with a reimagining of Pepsi’s early 00s football jerseys.

Eagle-eyed fans may have spotted the new jersey in the ‘Nutmeg Royale’ commercial, which just so happened to feature the legendary Ronaldinho, back in the fray once again. Now, Vincius Jr. – one of the most exciting talents in world football – is set to join his compatriot, as well as Lionel Messi, as Pepsi’s latest global brand ambassador.