Analytical Framework and Research Approach

This chapter develops the conceptual base for the book. A two-dimensional framework for a football-related operationalisation of identity is developed, covering different aspects of belonging on the one hand and aspects of local, regional, national and European frames on the other. Furthermore, the research design is elaborated. Eight football fan scenes in four countries are selected based on relevant conditioning factors. The selected cases are briefly described and situated in relation to our core research question. Finally, the chapter is rounded off by a description of our empirical research strategy.