The British Journal of Sociology
Volume 51 No. 3 September 2000
pages 419-42
Abstract
Through European club football, we can begin to detect the outlines of a new Europe of competing cities and regions which are being disembedded from their national contexts into new transnational matrices. Focusing on a specific network of Manchester United fans, broadly located in the city of Manchester, this article examines the development of European consciousness among this group of individuals. This consciousness does not consist of a European supranationalism but rather of a new emphasis on the locale of Manchester and an increasing recognition that Manchester United and the city of Manchester must compete autonomously with other major clubs and cities in Europe.
Keywords: Football fans, Manchester, New Europe, Cities
Anthony King
Dept. of Historical Political and Sociological Studies
University of Exeter