Eric Cantona’s career has been punctuated by numerous escapades and the man who became “Eric The King” in England has reserved one last dramatic twist. On May 18, 1997, the Manchester United star player announced his retirement from playing, at the age of 31 and with one season remaining on his contract with the Red Devils. Alex Ferguson, who had not yet acquired his title of “Sir”, was unable to retain his star number 7. “It’s a sad day for United. Eric was a fantastic player”only explained the Scottish coach.
The adventure of “Canto” in England is legendary. Suspended by the FFF for having thrown a ball at a referee, the native of Marseille (trained at AJ Auxerre and passed through OM or Montpellier), took charge of England in 1992. He was champion with Leeds four months later, before being recruited by Man United the following November for two new crownings. It was his 1993-1994 season, with 25 goals, which made him the idol of Old Trafford and a star throughout the country. He finished 3rd in the 1993 Ballon d’Or.
Cantona at the top again in 1996
“Eric the King” was put to the guillotine in January 1995 when he delivered a stunning kick to a Crystal Palace supporter who was insulting him. Cantona, already known for insulting remarks against Henri Michel, offers his best English response during a press conference (“When seagulls follow a trawler, it’s because they think we’re going to throw sardines at them”). His nine-month suspension in the Premier League permanently takes him away from the France team, although Aimé Jacquet had made him his captain.
Eric Cantona regained all his glory during the 1995-1996 season, totaling 15 goals and 16 assists. In addition to his third championship coronation with Man United, he scored the winning goal in the FA Cup in front of historic rival Liverpool! The idol of an entire people then contributed to his fourth coronation with the Red Devils but decided to hang up his boots. “I had always planned to retire when I was at the top, and in Manchester I reached the pinnacle of my career”he confides in this press release.
