Swedish critic questions World Cup commentary: 'Has Kurt Olsson returned from the dead?'

Swedish media critic Johan Croneman has voiced his strong opinions on the commentary during the football World Cup broadcasts on SVT. In a column for Dagens Nyheter, Croneman questions the necessity and style of expert analysis provided by Glenn Strömberg and Chris Härenstam.

Croneman likens the commentary to the comedic character Kurt Olsson, suggesting it has become overly performative and self-indulgent. He specifically points to an instance where Strömberg remarked, "This is the highest I've ever been," while referencing their elevated position in the broadcast booth. Croneman finds such comments irrelevant to the actual football analysis.

The critic argues that viewers, especially during a major tournament like the World Cup, are not looking for "pedagogical explanations." Instead, he believes fans have strong opinions and are capable of forming their own judgments. He contrasts this with the perceived need by some critics for commentators to simplify and explain every aspect of the game.

Croneman's critique comes after a smaller evening newspaper heavily criticized SVT's commentators. While acknowledging that some points of criticism might be valid, he strongly disagrees with the notion that commentators should act as educators. He suggests that the audience largely understands the game and is more interested in the matches themselves than in constant, simplified explanations.