Dear fans, on August 5, Eric Cantona returns at Old Trafford. United’s icon has confirmed his role in Scholes’ testimonial game, as he prepares to coach the legendary New York Cosmos side.
The legendary figure played a key role in United’s revival as the Red Devils became the dominant side in the Premier League. He won 4 Premier League titles, 2 FA Cups (therefore, he won the Double twice) and 3 Community Shields
King Eric suddenly retired from football at the age of 30, despite United’s success in retaining the title. He scored 82 goals in 185 games for the Red Devils.
He was an inaugural inductee of the English Hall of Fame (in 2002); he also won the Overseas Player of the Decade Award (in 2003) and was voted as United’s greatest player by Inside United magazine.
In January 2011, New York Cosmos announced that the iconic Cantona had been appointed as Director of Soccer with overall responsibility for all soccer-related matters. It was a surprising move, given that since his retirement, Cantona had refused many lucrative offers from different clubs.
On August 5, he will return to his beloved Old Trafford and his fans to play a part in Scholes’s testimonial. Cantona will be joined by former samba king and honorary president of Cosmos, Pele. King Eric said:
“I wish to congratulate Paul for such an incredible career at Manchester United and I am looking forward to returning to Old Trafford in my new role with the New York Cosmos,”
According to the BBC, Sir Alex Ferguson praised Cantona’s decision:
“Now from one great player to another, Eric Cantona. I am going to relish this touchline showdown, one Gaelic mind to another. Neither of us will want to lose this one, it is sure to be a great night and a well deserved recognition for Paul.”
As a fan of the l’enfant terrible, I am delighted by this. After so many years, I still remember his goals, his tricks, his shirt collar, his antics, his famous kung-fu kick directed at that Crystal Palace fan, his talismanic leadership. Everything!
Dear fans, Old Trafford rejoices as its wandering king returns home. Vive Le Roi!
