2026 World Cup: Paolo Di Canio Silences Daniele Adani and Then Appeals to Italians

Former player and current Sky commentator Paolo Di Canio has harshly criticized RAI commentator Daniele Adani on social media. Adani will be joining Alberto Rimedio on Sunday evening to provide commentary for the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Adani has been heavily criticized by many fans and industry insiders for his over-the-top commentary and analysis during World Cup matches, as well as for his openly pro-Argentina stance.

Di Canio was no exception; in a video posted on social media, he tore into his former colleague: “After the match between Argentina and England, I received 52 messages on WhatsApp from people I know—many of whom I hadn’t heard from in a long time. And the strange thing is that the tone was always the same: furious, angry, outraged. It’s really something unusual—52 out of 52. They told me: ‘I mean, it’s a disgrace, Rai.’”

““I have to say one thing: well then, don’t talk to me, because by choice I’ve never turned on the sound during World Cup matches,” explained Di Canio, “because I trust my knowledge, my expertise, and my own eyes. So I’d put on some background music and watch the games. But I’ve figured out what’s going on, because, well, people talk—even at the bar.”

Di Canio just can’t stand biased commentary: “What more do you want? Rai 1, Radio Televisión Argentina, will broadcast the final between Spain and Argentina. I mean, just smile and be happy…,” he said ironically, before becoming more serious and addressing the Italians. “I’d like to remind everyone… Italy—we’re Italians. If you really don’t want to get upset, turn the volume all the way down; no one’s forcing you to listen, otherwise you’re masochists.”