French · Paris · Born 24 May 1966The charismatic French king of Manchester United who transformed the club at the dawn of the Premier League era.
Eric Daniel Pierre Cantona was born in Paris in 1966 and grew up in Marseille, beginning his professional career at Auxerre in 1983. After turbulent spells at several French clubs — including bans for fighting and throwing a ball at a referee — he moved to England, joining Leeds United in 1992 and helping them win the First Division title. Sold to Manchester United for £1.2 million in November 1992, he transformed the club. Under Alex Ferguson he won four Premier League titles in five seasons (1993, 1994, 1995–96, 1996–97) and two FA Cups. His vision, technical skill, upturned collar and imperious presence made him the undisputed king of Old Trafford. His infamous kung-fu kick on a Crystal Palace supporter at Selhurst Park in January 1995 led to an eight-month ban. He returned to win the double in 1995–96, scoring 14 goals and being named PFA Players' Player of the Year. He retired suddenly aged 30 in 1997 to pursue art and acting. He earned 45 caps for France but never played at a World Cup or European Championship due to international controversies. He became a cult figure and personality, later serving as director of football at New York Cosmos. His impact on the Premier League's early golden era was decisive.
Iconic collar-up style and transforming Manchester United into Premier League champions
Sir Alex Ferguson called his signing of Cantona from Leeds the most important transfer he ever made.
Did You Know?How They Played
Creative forward with exceptional technical ability, vision, and leadership qualities
Lasting Impact
Regarded as one of the most influential players in Premier League history, catalyst for Manchester United's success in the 1990s
Career Honours
- Premier League 1992–93, 1993–94, 1995–96, 1996–97
- FA Cup 1994, 1996
- First Division 1991–92 (Leeds)
- FWA Footballer of Year 1996
- Coupe de France 1990
- UEFA Cup Winners' Cup 1991
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auxerre | 1986–1988 | 82 | 82 | #7 |
| Leeds United | 1992–1992 | 147 | 25 | #11 |
| Manchester United | 1992–1997 | 261 | 104 | #11 |
| Martigues | 1983–1985 | 27 | 6 | — |
| Marseille | 1988–1989 | 21 | 4 | — |
| Bordeaux | 1989–1990 | 11 | 2 | — |
| Montpellier | 1990–1991 | 33 | 10 | — |
| Nîmes | 1991–1992 | 17 | 2 | — |
 France | — | 45 | 20 | — |
French Athletes