Manchester United’s current struggles have prompted a scathing critique from club legend Eric Cantona, who accused the team’s leadership of attempting to dismantle the foundations of the storied organization.
The club is currently preparing for a Europa League encounter against Lyon, aiming for their third consecutive season securing silverware. However, this campaign has been markedly disappointing; United sits in 13th place in the Premier League with a meager 38 points earned from 31 games.
Beyond the field, discontent has brewed among supporters due to actions taken by new figures within the club’s administration. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival has seen ticket prices rise and over 450 staff members made redundant. Additionally, the role of club icon Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador was revoked. The Glazer family, long criticized for their ownership, have also been blamed for a lack of financial investment in the team.
Cantona, speaking frankly about the situation at Old Trafford, emphasized the importance of camaraderie and respect within the club.
“The soul of the team and the club is not just in the players,” he stated. “It’s about all the people around them—a big family.” He recalled a dressing room environment where players, coaches, and support staff contributed to a feeling of belonging. “I think it’s very important to respect these people like you respect your manager and team-mates.”
He continued, expressing concern over recent changes: “Since Ratcliffe arrived, it’s the complete opposite. He doesn’t want Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador anymore. He is more than a legend, and I think we have to find this soul again. This team of directors, they try to destroy everything. They don’t respect anybody.”
The club recently announced plans for a new stadium, but Cantona voiced his disapproval: “They even want to change the stadium. The stadium is iconic.” Drawing parallels with Arsenal’s move from Highbury, he added, “For me, Arsenal lost their soul when they left Highbury, and I’m sure a lot of fans miss Highbury.” He further elaborated on the significance of venues like Anfield for Liverpool and asserted that Old Trafford should remain United’s home.
“It’s like when you go in a house and feel a special energy. Can you imagine Liverpool playing in another stadium than Anfield? It’s impossible. I don’t think United can play in another stadium than Old Trafford.”
He conceded the possibility of a difference in perspective: “But I think maybe we are dreamers, and they are more like an economy and a strategy. I hate this kind of thing. I hate this kind of decision.” Despite his reservations, Cantona’s devotion to United remains clear. “I support United because I really love United. But now if I was a fan and I had to choose a club, I don’t think I would choose United because I don’t feel close to these kinds of decisions. Do you feel close to this project? I don’t think so.”
United will face Lyon hoping to advance to the semi-finals of the Europa League, having previously reached the final twice – winning against Ajax in 2017 with goals from Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Paul Pogba, but losing to Villarreal in a penalty shootout in 2021.
