Manchester United Icon Cantona Claims Ratcliffe Aims to ‘Ruin Everything’

Former Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has lambasted co-owner Jim Ratcliffe and his team for allegedly ruining the beloved Old Trafford club.

Since acquiring a minority stake in February 2024 and taking charge of United’s football operations, British billionaire Ratcliffe’s tenure has been anything but smooth.

Under his reign, manager Erik ten Hag was dismissed and replaced by Ruben Amorim, yet the results have been lacklustre, with the team currently sitting in 13th place in the Premier League.

As a lifelong United supporter, Ratcliffe has not only increased ticket prices but has also implemented severe budget cuts, leading to approximately 450 job losses, while also proposing plans to construct a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000.

Cantona, who played a pivotal role in ending the club’s long wait for an English title in 1993, has voiced his disapproval regarding Ratcliffe’s influence on his former side.

“Since Ratcliffe came on board, this board of directors seems intent on dismantling everything and shows a blatant lack of respect for anyone,” Cantona remarked to reporters during an event at FC United, the non-league club founded by fans in 2005 in protest against the controversial takeover by the Glazer family, who still hold majority ownership.

“There are even plans to change the stadium. The club’s essence isn’t solely in the players; it’s the entire family surrounding it. Respect for these individuals is just as vital as respect for your manager and teammates.”

“Since Ratcliffe’s arrival, the atmosphere has changed dramatically. He no longer values Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador. He is more than a legend, and it’s essential that we reclaim that essence.”

‘Lost their soul’

The 58-year-old Cantona, who has committed to becoming a co-owner of FC United, enjoyed five fruitful years at United after being signed by Alex Ferguson from Leeds, during which he won four Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

The former France forward stresses that relocating from Old Trafford would be a grievous error, as the club’s spirit has been entwined with their home ground since 1910.

“This board seems determined to tear everything down. There’s a lack of respect for anyone. They even wish to alter the stadium. It is an iconic venue,” he stated.

“In my opinion, Arsenal lost their essence when they departed from Highbury, and many fans lament that move. I can’t picture United playing anywhere other than Old Trafford.”

Now pursuing a career in acting, Cantona disclosed that he offered Ratcliffe his assistance to rejuvenate a club that hasn’t lifted the Premier League trophy since Ferguson’s last season in 2013.

“I’ll be occupied with film projects until the end of October this year,” he shared. “However, I expressed my willingness to set that aside to focus on helping you rebuild something worthwhile. But my offer seemed to fall on deaf ears.”

“It pains me to witness United in this predicament. They seem to have a different vision, a separate strategy.”

“I love United, and I will always support them, but if I were a fan now, I might hesitate to choose United. I can’t relate to the decisions being made.”

“Perhaps we’re dreamers, while the owners are oriented towards economics and strategy. This approach frustrates me. I despise these kinds of decisions.”