“They’re Destroying the Soul of the Club” – United Legend Slams Stadium Plans and Ferguson Snub
Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has launched an emotional broadside against co-owner Jim Ratcliffe’s regime, accusing the British billionaire of “destroying everything” at Old Trafford since his February 2024 arrival. The fiery Frenchman’s comments come as United languish in 13th place under new manager Ruben Amorim, with staff cuts and controversial stadium plans deepening fan discontent.
“They don’t respect anybody,” Cantona fumed during an appearance at supporter-owned FC United, the breakaway club formed in protest against the Glazers. “They want to change our stadium, push aside legends like Sir Alex Ferguson – this isn’t the United I know.” The 58-year-old actor-footballer, who became a cult hero during his 1992-1997 tenure, revealed he even offered to pause his film career to help rebuild the club, only to be ignored.
Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures have seen 450 jobs axed and ticket prices hiked, while plans for a glittering 100,000-seat replacement stadium progress. But Cantona argues this risks repeating Arsenal’s mistake in leaving Highbury: “The soul isn’t in the players – it’s in these walls. Old Trafford is our home since 1910. Destroy that, and you destroy our heart.”
The four-time Premier League winner saved his harshest words for Ratcliffe’s treatment of Ferguson, who was reportedly sidelined from ambassadorial duties. “Sir Alex is more than a legend – he’s the soul of modern United. And now? I wouldn’t choose this club if I were a fan today,” confessed Cantona, who recently became a co-owner of FC United in a symbolic snub to the current hierarchy.
As United prepare for their first season without European football in a decade, Cantona’s outburst crystallizes growing unease among the Old Trafford faithful. With Ratcliffe prioritizing “economy and strategy” over tradition, the club’s most charismatic modern figure has drawn a line in the sand – and thousands of disillusioned fans may soon stand behind him.
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