Analytical Framework and Research Design
摘要
In this chapter, we develop our analytical framework for our analysis by introducing the theoretical concept of the football-identity-cohesion nexus. It elaborates on the interrelations of fandom, European identity, and social cohesion. Starting from there, the selection of countries is justified. In this context, we briefly describe each country and its club football in relation to the research questions. Finally, we describe our tripartite methodology consisting of a quantitative and comparative media analysis, a survey of fans and non-fans, and expert interviews with stakeholders. For each methodological step we also describe its operationalisation.