Paolo Di Canio – Sunderland, 2013
Di Canio was tasked with manning the helm at a Sunderland side that had picked up just three points in the last 24 available prior to his appointment. Resignations from board members and the termination of long-running partnerships with the miners of Wearside due to Di Canio’s pro-facist beliefs all added fuel to what already was the raging inferno that was Sunderland AFC in round 32 of the 2012-13 season.
Sitting in 17th place in the Premier League, equal on 31 points with Wigan Atheltic, Di Canio’s whirlwind entrance to the Stadium of Light could only be forgiven in exchange for the Black Cats’ survival.
Eight points from the final six games of the season, including a 3-0 win in the Tyne-Wear Derby at St James’ Park (and that knee slide) was enough to secure Sunderland’s Premier League status for another year.
Dramatic. Passionate. Enthralling. The enigma that was Di Canio instilled in fans and players alike a newfound sense of belief and optimism that will not be forgotten any time soon.
The honeymoon period soon wore off, however, as Di Canio was sacked five rounds into the following season after picking up one point and shipping 11 goals. With all the controversy that surrounded him, it is easy to forget that the roman native was in charge for just 13 matches.
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