Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has launched a scathing critique of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership at Old Trafford, claiming the INEOS billionaire is systematically dismantling the club’s heritage while rejecting offers of assistance from those who understand its soul.
Speaking at FC United of Manchester, where he and his family have become co-owners of the fan-founded club, Cantona expressed dismay at Ratcliffe’s vision for United’s future. “Since Ratcliffe arrived this team of directors try to destroy everything and they don’t respect anybody,” the Frenchman stated, particularly criticizing plans for a potential 100,000-seat stadium to replace Old Trafford.
“The stadium is iconic,” Cantona insisted. “For me, Arsenal lost their soul when they left Highbury. Can you imagine Liverpool playing in another stadium than Anfield? It’s impossible.”
The former striker, who won four Premier League titles during his transformative spell at United between 1992 and 1997, revealed he had offered to postpone his filmmaking commitments to help rebuild the club, but was rebuffed. “I said to them: ‘I can put that [aside] and concentrate and help you to rebuild something.’ And they don’t care.”
Cantona’s comments come amid widespread restructuring at United, with approximately 450 staff redundancies implemented since Ratcliffe’s minority takeover became official in February 2024. The Frenchman emphasized that these employees represent the true fabric of the club: “I think it’s very important to respect these people like you respect your manager and teammates.”
His decision to join FC United of Manchester—established by disillusioned fans following the Glazer family’s debt-laden takeover in 2005—represents a symbolic alignment with supporters who prioritize community values over commercial interests.
“If I was a fan and I had to choose a club I don’t think I would choose United,” Cantona admitted. “I don’t feel close to these kind of decisions. They have another strategy, another project. Do you feel close to this project? I don’t think so.”
Manchester United have been approached for comment regarding Cantona’s statements.
