WHAT I’VE LEARNT

Eric Cantona: ‘If I support one country, it’s England’

The former Manchester United and France star on retirement, racism and the game’s young stars

Eric Cantona: “Bellingham and Saka are great players. It’s a new generation”
Eric Cantona: “Bellingham and Saka are great players. It’s a new generation”
MARK HARRISON FOR THE TIMES MAGAZINE
The Times

Former footballer Eric Cantona, 58, grew up in Marseilles, France. He played for Leeds United and Manchester United in the early Nineties, winning five league titles in six years in England. In 1995, he kung-fu kicked a Crystal Palace fan in the crowd and was given community service. Since retiring from football in 1997 he has acted in films and released music. He has four children from two marriages and lives in Lisbon with his second wife, actress Rachida Brakni.

France v England? I’d support England. If I support one country, it’s England. I feel English in terms of football. The passion for the game, the vibes you feel as a player and a fan. I love to feel these vibes when they sing Three