Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has delivered a blistering critique of the club's current ownership, specifically targeting co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in a remarkable public outburst.
A History of Discontent
The former French striker, who remains a revered figure at Old Trafford, expressed his profound disappointment during his ongoing one-man show tour. Cantona revealed he had actively sought to contribute to the club he loves but was met with disinterest from Ratcliffe and his team.
"I have many other passions and projects, but I thought that for two or three years I could maybe put those to the side and try to give something to this club, which has given everything to me," Cantona told audiences, as reported by Telegraph Sport.
He added with palpable frustration, "But he didn't seem interested. I did what I had to do, so I don't feel guilty anymore. I tried my best."
Football Philosophy Under Fire
Cantona's criticism extends beyond personal slights to the very heart of Manchester United's footballing identity. He launched a fierce defence of the legacy left by legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, accusing the current regime of abandoning its core principles.
"Sir Alex Ferguson created a style of beautiful attacking football, which the new owners should have used," Cantona stated emphatically. "Instead, they destroyed it."
This isn't the first time Cantona has voiced his disapproval. The football legend previously condemned Ratcliffe's decision to strip Ferguson of his ambassadorial role at the club in October 2024. Earlier this year, he also dismissed ambitious plans for a £2 billion 'New Trafford' stadium, arguing the project was stripping the club of its soul.
Takeover Speculation and Legendary Involvement
The timing of Cantona's comments is particularly significant amid growing speculation about the club's future ownership. Recent reports suggest Cantona's name has been linked with potential investment groups from the Middle East.
During the October international break, Saudi official Turki Al-Sheikh initially fuelled rumours of an imminent deal, though he later clarified he wasn't the potential investor. talkSPORT subsequently indicated that investors based in the UAE are the more likely candidates.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking via United Stand, Cantona has been involved in direct discussions about potentially taking on an ambassadorial role to support a prospective consortium's bid for United. The report also confirmed that other former United players had been approached, though not necessarily for financial investment.
The situation creates a stark contrast with Ratcliffe's well-documented admiration for Cantona. The British billionaire has frequently named the Frenchman as his favourite United player and even paid homage to him by naming the company that purchased up to 29% of United, Trawlers Limited, after Cantona's famous "when the seagulls follow the trawler" speech.
However, following these latest harsh words from the 59-year-old legend, Ratcliffe may be forced to reconsider his footballing allegiances as the battle for Manchester United's soul continues to unfold.
