The names of football positions vary across countries and languages. The way positions are called in Japan seems partially uncomfortable, so I would like to propose a change.
Shocked by the Differences between Japan and England
In Japan, the wide defensive positions in a back four are commonly referred to as “side-backs” (SB) without question. However, when I voyaged to England, this term was nonexistent. Instead, these positions are called “fullbacks” (FB).
When referring to only one side, the terms “right back” and “left back” are often used in short.
It’s unclear how the word “side-back” came to be used in Japan. It was likely coined to convey the idea of players positioned on the sides of the pitch more intuitively.
For positions from midfield to the front line, terms such as “outside right,” “outside left,” “inside right,” and “inside left” are used. Further, the wide midfield positions are sometimes called “side midfielders.”
Today, midfielders are sometimes called “halves,” making “side half” an acceptable term. However, the word “side-back” is rarely used in England.
While the naming of positions varies depending on tactical systems, the number of roles remains limited since there are only 11 players on a team. Instead of using Japanese-English terms, wouldn’t it be better to adopt the original English terminology used in football’s country of origin?
How Position Names Reveal the Roots of Japanese Football
Examining position names in Japan, we see that English is predominantly used. In addition, terminology from other languages appears in some cases as well.
For example, “volante” is a Brazilian term for a central midfielder. In English, this role is also referred to as an “anchor,” “holding midfielder,” or “defensive midfielder.”
Football was introduced to Japan from England. After that, Brazilian football has had a substantial influence on the Japanese game due to the significant presence of Japanese-Brazilian immigrants.
Some English position names have also been translated into Japanese. For instance, “behind strikers” is sometimes referred to as “top-shita” in Japan. Since this term has been fully adapted into Japanese, it does not feel particularly unnatural.
There are instances where English terms used in Japanese football are not recognised in England, but no need to worry too much as long as the meaning is understandable.
However, it has already been several decades since the professional league, the J-League, was established. Football still has room to develop in Japan, but it’s becoming established as a major sport. Now may be the time to prioritise accuracy over simplicity when it comes to naming positions.
The number of players who transfer from Japan to overseas has increased. It may lead to misunderstandings at foreign clubs if they say “side-back,” causing unnecessary confusion. Wouldn’t it be better to call them “fullbacks” from the outset when they are in Japan?
Interestingly, rugby union also has a “fullback” position, which is called “fullback” in Japan, just as in English. Since Japanese rugby uses “fullback,” there should be no reason why it can’t be called fullback in Japanese football.
Author: Takuya Nagata. Amazon Profile
Follow @nagatackleA novel writer and creator. Travelled to Brazil and trained football at CFZ do Rio (Centro de Futebol Zico Sociedade Esportiva) in Rio de Janeiro. Played soccer for the Urawa Reds (Urawa Red Diamonds), one of the biggest football clubs in Japan, and toured Europe. Retired at a young age and voyaged alone to England and graduated from UCA, the UK’s university. Established careers as a journalist, football coach, consultant, etc. across Europe such as Spain. Made the managerial debut at the age of 14 and also served as the manager for an English university’s football club. Knowledgeable in creative and technology fields as well. Launched “MINIЯISM” (minirism), the art movement that contributes to the development of societies, the knowledge hub “The Minimalist” and the SPACE Culture & Entertainment hub “The Space-Timer 0.” Also writing for “Football Game Sphere.” The founder of “Propulsive Football” (PROBALL), the world’s first-ever competitive mixed football, facilitating diversity and spirit for equal participation in society.
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