Former Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has voiced his disappointment with the direction of the club under the partial ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Speaking at an event hosted by FC United – a team established by fans unhappy with United’s ownership – the Frenchman did not hold back in his comments.
Cantona, who played for United between 1992 and 1997, expressed concern over how the club is being managed since Ratcliffe and his Ineos Group acquired a 27.7% share in February 2024. Although the Glazer family remains the primary owner, Ineos now oversees football-related matters.
“I’m saddened by what’s happening at the club,” said Cantona. “These new leaders seem determined to dismantle everything and show little regard for anyone.” He added that, while his loyalty to United remains strong, he would likely not support the club if he were making that choice today.
The acquisition by Ratcliffe, a 72-year-old billionaire, has been met with mixed reactions. Recent cost-saving measures, including two sets of job cuts and an increase in ticket prices, have sparked criticism from fans and former players alike.
Ratcliffe defended his approach in a March interview, saying that without these actions, the club could have faced serious financial trouble by the end of the year. Despite this, concerns continue to mount over the long-term vision of the new leadership.
One such concern is the proposed construction of a brand-new 100,000-seat stadium near Old Trafford, announced last month. The project, expected to cost £2 billion, would replace the existing ground, a move Cantona firmly opposes. “The stadium is historic,” he said. “Arsenal lost part of their identity when they left Highbury. I believe the same could happen to United if they move.”
Cantona also questioned the upcoming exit of Sir Alex Ferguson from his role as a global ambassador. According to reports, Ferguson’s departure at the end of the season was settled in a direct and friendly discussion with Ratcliffe, but Cantona views the decision as a blow to the club’s heritage.
“To let go of Sir Alex, who means so much to the club, is unthinkable,” said Cantona. “The heart of United isn’t just on the pitch. It’s found in the people behind the scenes – those who form a kind of extended family. Respecting them is just as important as honoring the players or manager.”
Cantona, who earned 45 caps for France during his career, believes that Manchester United must reconnect with its roots if it hopes to regain its identity.
