PhD chronicles: Eurocentric view of Asia

Embarking on a PhD research journey is an exhilarating and intellectually stimulating endeavor. However, when delving into a niche area such as Asian football tactics, researchers often encounter numerous challenges. One of the most significant obstacles stems from the scarcity of reliable and unbiased information on the subject. This scarcity can be attributed to the prevailing Eurocentric view that dominates the global football landscape. In this article, we will explore the pitfalls of this Eurocentric perspective, which hampers the comprehensive understanding and analysis of Asian football tactics. By highlighting the biases inherent in the available information, we aim to shed light on the importance of adopting a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to studying and appreciating the tactics employed in Asian football.

The dominance of European football in terms of popularity, resources, and media coverage has resulted in a disproportionate emphasis on European football tactics and strategies. Consequently, there is a significant imbalance in the availability of comprehensive and unbiased resources that explore Asian football tactics in-depth. This lack of information not only impedes the progress of research in this area but also perpetuates the Eurocentric biases that overshadow alternative football cultures and their tactical approaches.

In this article, I will talk about 5 key aspects that do cloud judgement because of our Eurocentric view:

1. Racial Bias
2. Media representation
3. Scouting and talent development
4. Perception of style and tactics

Racial bias

Eurocentrism, as an ideological perspective, tends to prioritise European culture, history, and values as central and superior. In the context of football, this Eurocentric lens often leads to the assumption that European players possess inherent qualities that make them more skilled, intelligent, or physically superior compared to players from other regions, including Asia. These preconceived notions can result in stereotypes and prejudices that impact the assessment and perception of Asian football players.

One manifestation of this racial bias is the perpetuation of stereotypes about the abilities of Asian players. Stereotypes are oversimplified generalisations that attribute certain characteristics to individuals based on their race or ethnicity. In the case of Asian football players, common stereotypes include notions of them being technically proficient but lacking in physicality, strength, or athleticism compared to their European counterparts. These stereotypes can create a biased framework through which Asian players are evaluated, often leading to their abilities being underestimated or devalued.

Furthermore, racial bias can influence the perception of Asian players’ potential for success at higher levels of competition. Eurocentrism tends to prioritise European leagues and competitions as the pinnacle of football excellence. As a result, scouts, talent managers, and decision-makers may view players from European backgrounds as having a greater chance of success at the highest levels of the sport. This bias can result in Asian players being overlooked or undervalued in talent identification and development processes.

Addressing racial bias and challenging Eurocentric perspectives requires a multi-faceted approach. First, it is essential to recognise and confront the biases that exist within the football community and the broader society. This includes raising awareness of the stereotypes and prejudices associated with Asian players and actively challenging them through education and dialogue.

Diversifying scouting networks and talent identification processes is crucial. By expanding the scope beyond European leagues and competitions, scouts can discover and assess the potential of Asian players more fairly. This requires actively seeking out talent from diverse regions, including Asia, and providing them with opportunities to showcase their abilities.

Media representation

One of the key consequences of Eurocentric media representation is the underrepresentation of Asian football players in mainstream coverage. The focus on European leagues and competitions means that the media dedicates more airtime, print, and online coverage to European players and teams. As a result, Asian players struggle to receive the same level of exposure, making it difficult for their skills and achievements to be widely recognised and celebrated on a global scale.

This lack of representation has far-reaching implications. Firstly, it reinforces stereotypes and biases associated with Asian football players. Limited exposure and media coverage often results in a narrow and one-dimensional portrayal of Asian players. These stereotypes can create a biased perception that undermines the recognition and appreciation of the diverse skills and qualities that Asian players possess.

Moreover, the underrepresentation of Asian players in media coverage inhibits the understanding and analysis of their playing styles, tactical acumen, and contributions to the sport. Football is a global game with diverse regional approaches and strategies. However, Eurocentric media representation tends to overshadow alternative football cultures, including those in Asia. This limited exposure leads to a lack of familiarity with Asian football styles and hinders a comprehensive understanding of the tactics employed by Asian teams and players.

The lack of representation also affects the visibility and marketability of Asian players. In the football industry, exposure plays a crucial role in attracting sponsorship deals, endorsement opportunities, and lucrative transfer offers. When Asian players receive less media coverage and recognition, they may face barriers in accessing these opportunities, further perpetuating a cycle of underrepresentation and limited economic prospects.

Addressing the issue of media representation requires a concerted effort to diversify and broaden the scope of coverage. Sports media organisations should actively seek out and highlight the achievements and skills of Asian football players. This can be done through increased coverage of Asian leagues, tournaments, and individual performances. Moreover, featuring Asian players in interviews, profiles, and analysis segments can help provide a more balanced representation of talent across different regions.

Scouting and talent development

Scouting and talent development are crucial components of football that shape the future of the sport. However, an Eurocentric view can significantly impact these processes, particularly in regard to Asian players. If scouts predominantly focus on European leagues and competitions, they may overlook promising players from Asia, resulting in a limited perspective that hampers the recognition and development of their abilities.

One of the primary factors contributing to this issue is the perception of European leagues as the pinnacle of football excellence. Eurocentrism often prioritises European football as the standard to which players from other regions are compared. Consequently, scouts may have a biased inclination towards seeking talent exclusively within European leagues, overlooking the potential of players from Asia.

To address these challenges, it is crucial to adopt a more inclusive and global approach to scouting and talent development. Scouts should actively seek out opportunities to observe and evaluate players from diverse regions, including Asia. This can involve establishing scouting networks in Asian countries, attending tournaments and competitions in the region, and engaging with local football associations and clubs.

Moreover, fostering partnerships and collaborations between European and Asian clubs can facilitate the transfer of knowledge, expertise, and resources. Such collaborations can provide exposure and development opportunities for Asian players, bridging the gap between the different football cultures and enhancing cross-cultural understanding.

Perception of style and tactics

Eurocentric perspectives heavily influence the global perception of the “ideal” style of play and tactical approaches in football. This dominance often emphasizes physicality, directness, and fast-paced play as the standard to which all teams and players are compared. This emphasis may overshadow alternative styles and strategies commonly employed in Asian football, leading to a devaluation of Asian teams and players’ abilities.

One of the key consequences of Eurocentric perspectives is the perpetuation of stereotypes and biases regarding the preferred playing styles of European and Asian teams. European football is often associated with a fast-paced, high-intensity game that prioritizes physicality and direct attacking play. This perception is perpetuated by the media, popular culture, and the success of European teams in global competitions.

In contrast, Asian football traditions often prioritize technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and a more patient, possession-based approach. Asian teams tend to focus on precise ball control, intricate passing combinations, and strategic build-up play. However, the Eurocentric lens may overlook or undervalue these qualities, favoring a more direct and physical style of play.

As a result, Asian teams and players may be unfairly judged or compared unfavorably to European counterparts. The Eurocentric bias may lead to a devaluation of the technical skills, tactical intelligence, and overall abilities of Asian players and teams. This devaluation can manifest in various ways, such as overlooking Asian players for individual awards, undervaluing Asian teams’ performances in international competitions, or dismissing Asian football tactics as “inferior” or “less exciting” compared to European styles.

Furthermore, the Eurocentric perspective can limit the recognition and appreciation of the tactical innovations and strategic diversity present in Asian football. Each region has its unique footballing heritage, influenced by historical, cultural, and social factors. The rich tapestry of tactical approaches found in Asian football, such as the fluid and intricate passing styles in East Asia or the robust defensive organization in West Asia, may be overshadowed or overlooked due to the dominant Eurocentric lens.

To overcome these challenges, it is essential to foster a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to the perception of style and tactics in football. This involves recognising and appreciating the diverse approaches and strategies employed by different regions, including Asia. Emphasising the strengths and unique qualities of Asian football, such as technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and strategic build-up play, can help counteract the biases and stereotypes that devalue Asian teams and players.

Final thoughts

This might seem all very theoretical and conceptual, but it’s a very important starting point in my research. In football we tend to have a Eurocentric view of the world and that can have an impact on your judgement. That bias needs to be factored in, so we can truly have the right context.