Eric Cantona open to Manchester United role under Sir Jim Ratcliffe

Former French football player Eric Cantona looks on prior to the football and rugby union "Match des Legendes" at the Allianz Riviera stadium in Nice, southeastern France, on September 26, 2022. (Photo by Valery HACHE / AFP) (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Eric Cantona has hinted he would be interested in a role at Manchester United under the club’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Former United striker Cantona, who won four Premier League titles and two FA Cups with United before his shock retirement in 1997, said the club still has a place in his heart.

In an interview with the Big Issue before the release of his live album on March 29, Cantona Sings Eric, the Frenchman said he did not have the time to be a coach when asked if there was a role for him at Old Trafford.

“I am involved in too many things I really love to be a manager,” Cantona said, as quoted by Sky News. “In everything I do I work hard to give 100% so that I am able to have the confidence and to enjoy.

“So I don’t have the time to be manager. But maybe something else…”

Ratcliffe completed a £1.25bn deal to but a 27.7% stake in United last month. When asked about the deal, Cantona spoke with confidence about the club challenging for major honours again.

“For sure with Jim Ratcliffe I think we come back asa the best,” the 57-year-old added.

“The way you drive the club is important. Ratcliffe, who is a fan of United since forever, is a great businessman of course, but is also very passionate about sport.”

Ratcliffe revealed his admiration for Cantona in the past, so it wouldn’t surprise me if the Frenchman was given a role shortly.

Maybe we can replace Alan Keegan and have Cantona singing his tracks for pre-match entertainment? You should know by now I’m joking about that.

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