Eric Cantona, the legendary Manchester United player, recently sat down with The Athletic for an interview. Cantona, known for his enigmatic personality, shared insights into his life and passions beyond football.
Cantona began by discussing his love for literature and recommended the book “Kiffe Kiffe Tomorrow” by Faiza Guene. He mentioned how he laughed and cried while reading it, emphasizing the importance of emotions in his life. Cantona’s love for observing the world and people around him was evident throughout the conversation.
The interview touched on Cantona’s recent endeavors, including his musical project Cantona Sings Eric and his appearance in a film trailer. He also promoted Ford’s new Capri, expressing his fascination with the idea of reading the future. Cantona’s thirst for observation and inspiration was apparent as he delved into his various creative pursuits.
The conversation then shifted to the intersection of football and immigration. Cantona spoke passionately about how football brings people from different backgrounds together and reflects the history and culture of a place. He highlighted the contributions of immigrants to French football over the years and emphasized the importance of diversity and accessibility within the sport.
The discussion turned towards Manchester United and the club’s recent changes since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became a minority shareholder. Cantona acknowledged the significance of a strong chairman in shaping the foundation and direction of a football club. He expressed confidence in Ratcliffe’s ability to lead Manchester United back to its former glory.
Cantona addressed the recent cost-cutting measures at United, acknowledging that sometimes difficult decisions have to be made. However, he stressed the importance of human connection and energy within the club, advocating for more face-to-face communication to improve morale.
When asked about his favorite current United player, Cantona mentioned Lamine Yamal as one of the standout players at Euro 2024. He praised Yamal’s style of play and ability to surprise everyone on the field. Cantona also acknowledged Bruno Fernandes as a player who occasionally surprises him.
In closing, Cantona offered advice to aspiring footballers, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the game, having passion, and developing a strong relationship with the ball. He encouraged players to view the ball as a friend and not an enemy, drawing inspiration from players like Yamal who epitomize this mindset.
Overall, the interview provided a deeper understanding of Cantona’s multifaceted personality and his views on various aspects of life beyond football. His observations on the world and his emphasis on emotions and human connection added depth to the conversation, making it a truly insightful and engaging read.