Eric Cantona
The iconic number 7 who turned up his collar and ruled Old Trafford.
Éric Daniel Pierre Cantona (born 24 May 1966) is a French actor and former professional footballer. He played for Manchester United, with whom he won four Premier League titles in five years, including two League and FA Cup Doubles. He wore the iconic number 7 shirt at Manchester United and was known for turning up his collar. He is affectionately nicknamed "King Eric" by Manchester United fans.
Quick Facts
- Birth name
- Éric Daniel Pierre Cantona
- Born
- 24 May 1966
- Birthplace
- Marseille, France
- Occupation
- Actor, footballer
- Height
- 1.88 m / 6 ft 2 in
- Children
- 4
Lore & Background
Cantona was voted as Manchester United's greatest-ever player by Inside United magazine in 2003. He was an inaugural inductee into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2002. At the Premier League 10 Seasons Awards in 2003, he was voted the Overseas Player of the Decade. He was inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame in 2021.
Reader's Guide
Cantona was a physically strong and technically skilful player with both creative and goalscoring ability. Mostly utilised as a deep-lying forward, he was also capable of playing as a centre-forward, a dedicated striker, an attacking midfielder, or a central midfielder. He was named by Pelé in the FIFA 100 list of the world's greatest living players in 2004.
Did You Know?
- Cantona won league championships in England and France in seven of his last eight full seasons as a professional.
- He was convicted in 1995 for an assault on an abusive spectator, receiving a two-week prison sentence reduced to community service on appeal, and an eight-month suspension from football.
- Cantona unexpectedly announced his retirement from football in 1997 just before his 31st birthday.
- He debuted as a stage actor in 2010 in Face au Paradis, a play directed by his wife, Rachida Brakni.
- As player-manager of the France national beach soccer team, he won the 2005 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eric Cantona?
Eric Cantona was a French striker widely regarded as the catalyst for Manchester United's modern era of dominance.
When did Eric Cantona join Manchester United?
He transferred from Leeds United in late 1992, making his competitive debut on December 7th of that year.
How did Eric Cantona's time at Manchester United end?
Cantona retired from professional football in 1997 while still playing for the club, cementing his legacy as one of their greatest ever players.
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