"I am not political, I do not affiliate myself to any organization, I am not a racist and I do not support the ideology of fascism, " Di Canio said in a statement on Wednesday.

WSJ: Sunderland's Paolo Di Canio Denies Fascist Links

"I feel that I should not have to continually justify myself to people who do not understand this, however I will say one thing only -- I am not the man that some people like to portray, " Di Canio said in a statement on Sunderland's website on Wednesday.

CNN: Di Canio hits back: 'I am not a fascist'

Both have said that Di Canio's appointment will not affect their relationship with Sunderland, while several fan groups told CNN Tuesday that they supported his arrival.

CNN: Di Canio hits back: 'I am not a fascist'