Legendary footballer and former United captain Eric Cantona is back in football with New York Cosmos as ‘Director of Soccer’. Cantona left United in May 1997 after nearly five years at Old Trafford, where he picked up four league titles and two FA Cups. Eric is often credited in aiding the development of a number of United youngsters including David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, Gary Neville and Phil Neville.
Eric Cantona joins the legendary Brazilian Pele at the New York Cosmos in the aim of securing a place in the MLS. Cantona was quoted as saying:
“I am very honoured to join the legendary New York Cosmos. It’s a big project, a wonderful project.The Cosmos are very strong, beautifully made, with a great past. It’s kind of a mix between football and art. I will do everything I can to help us first find our way to regain the No. 1 position in the United States, and then for us to become one of the best clubs in the world.”
Eric’s last game for United was in the 2-0 victory against West Ham in the final game of the 96/97 season. Sir Alex Ferguson commented in his autobiography that Eric appeared to have ‘changed’ following a Christmas trip to Barcelona six months before his departure. Bricki recently put together a post on the legacy of Eric Cantona at Old Trafford.
Can’t wait to see what American footy fans make of Cantona when he goes on one of his rambles. 😀
Just a clarification the New York Cosmos aren’t in MLS yet, they’re hoping for a 2013 inclusion.
^Cheers Chillmike – you are indeed 100% correct and the post has been amended.
No worries! Also wanted to say thanks, I’ve been a reader of the site for a few months now and for me it’s hands down the best out there. Really love all the articles and interviews you all post for us to read!
To the post, I haven’t read SAF’s book (I know I know) but does he clarify what he means by “changed”? Very curious about it.
Hi Mike,
Thanks for the nice words pal.
I remember reading that Cantona went to Barcelona for a mid season break with Jordi Cruyff and when he returned he apparently was more distant. I guess it may have been more of a realisation that he wanted a little more out of life other than football – but to retire at his age with his ability was scandalous!
I always remember his dream was to win the European Cup and we obviously got very close losing to Dortmund 2-0 on aggregate in the semi final. I’ve also read (you obviously don’t know how much of it was true) but it was the day after the 2nd leg (when Eric after the game trotted towards the Stretford End, shirt off and head down, looking rather glum) he met Fergie to tell him what his plans were.
Can’t wait to see King Eric back in football with even more philosophy and rambling! The New York Cosmos will be an amazing addition to the MLS and i really enjoyed reading http://blog.mainlinemenswear.co.uk/2011/03/new-york-cosmos-english-tailoring-meets.html full of their history and facts.