Eric Cantona

Eric Cantona, born on May 24, 1966, in Marseille, France, is a retired professional footballer revered as one of the most influential players in the history of Manchester United. Cantona began his professional career with Auxerre in France before moving to Leeds United, followed by a legendary stint at Manchester United where he won multiple titles, including four Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

Cantona is known for his technical skill, creativity, goal-scoring ability, and strong personality. He has won numerous individual awards, including the PFA Players' Player of the Year and was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame.

Off the field, Cantona is also recognized for his contributions to arts and cinema, having pursued a successful acting career post-retirement.

Auxerre

• Beginnings: Cantona started his professional career with Auxerre in 1983, showing great promise as a forward.

Leeds United

• First Success in England: Cantona joined Leeds United in 1992 and helped them to a First Division title in his debut season.

Manchester United

• Golden Era: Cantona transferred to Manchester United in 1992. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, he became a pivotal figure, inspiring the team to four Premier League titles and two FA Cups during his five-year stay at the club. His impact and influence at Manchester United earned him the nickname 'King Eric' among fans.

Retirement

• Early Retirement: Cantona retired from professional football in 1997, at the age of 30, surprising the football world.

France National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for France in 1987.

Achievements:

• Cantona was a key player for France, earning 45 caps and scoring 20 goals. However, his international career was marked by controversy and he was often overlooked for major tournaments.

• Position: Primarily a forward, known for his role as a deep-lying striker or 'second striker'.
• Skills: Cantona was celebrated for his creativity, vision, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability. He was also known for his strong personality and leadership on the pitch.

• Family: Cantona is married to Rachida Brakni, a French actress, and has two children.
• Post-Football Career: After retiring from professional football, Cantona pursued a career in cinema and arts, achieving notable success as an actor.

• Eric Cantona is remembered not only for his extraordinary talent and impact on the pitch but also for his charismatic personality, unique philosophy, and influence in popular culture, particularly in England. His legacy at Manchester United is legendary, with fans often referring to him as 'The King'.

English Football Hall of Fame:

• Inducted in 2002

PFA Players' Player of the Year:

• Winner in 1994

FWA Footballer of the Year:

• Winner in 1996

Onze d'Or:

• Winner in 1996

Books

• Auclair, P. (2009) Cantona: The Rebel Who Would Be King. London: Macmillan.
• Robson, B. (2006) My Manchester United Years. London: Hodder & Stoughton.

Websites

• FIFA: Information about Eric Cantona’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Manchester United: Details about Cantona’s career at Manchester United. Available at: https://www.manutd.com
• UEFA: Records and profile of Eric Cantona. Available at: https://www.uefa.com

Articles

• ESPN: Eric Cantona: The legend of Manchester United. Available at: https://www.espn.com
• The Guardian: Profile and articles on Eric Cantona. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com

Interviews and Documentaries

• Looking for Eric (2009): Directed by Ken Loach. This film features Eric Cantona playing himself and exploring his influence on fans.
• Eric Cantona: Football's Greatest (2012): A documentary examining the career and impact of Eric Cantona in football.