Stylin'

Soccer playing style has often been dismissed as the aesthetic element of the game. Brief mention of playing style is usually considered when discussing national identity, but seldom are other cultural elements delineated. This book addresses a definitive definition of playing style and the cultural elements that influence it. A case study analysis of Brazilian soccer exemplifies how cultural elements shape, influence and intersect with playing style. Eight signature elements of playing style are determined: tactics, technique, body image, concept of soccer, values, tradition, ecological and miscellaneous. Both history of the country and sport history are necessary determinants when considering style, as style must be historically situated to avoid stereotypification. Cultural elements that shape soccer style include national habitus and national identity, colonialism, class and politics, race, gender, religion and globalization trends. Training philosophy and significant players also contribute to the contouring of national playing style.