Man United: Eric Cantona slams Jim Ratcliffe over his immigration comments

In the corridors of Old Trafford, the former number 7 of the Red Devils, Eric Cantona, took the mic again to denounce the remarks of Jim Ratcliffe, CEO of INEOS and club owner. The veteran, who no longer holds the current club executives in his heart, reminded that football is a popular sport fed by immigration.

An unflinching reaction

"I cannot accept this kind of thing," said the native of Failsworth, adding that if he had been at the helm of the club during his career, he would never have signed. Cantona emphasized that the greatest players come from different waves of immigration, both in France and in England.

Ratcliffe's statements, made in February during an interview with Sky News, called for a "controlled and well‑managed" immigration. He apologized, stating that his language might have offended people in the United Kingdom and in Europe.

The "King" Cantona, nicknamed as such by the supporters, recalled his attachment to Manchester and Trafford, noting that the club would have been different under the billionaire's leadership.

Jim Ratcliffe, who is part of the Manchester command staff, reaffirmed the importance of the economic debate surrounding immigration, without revisiting Cantona's criticisms.

This altercation highlights the tensions between the club's former glory and the new management, reminding that football remains an arena where political opinions can clash with sporting passions.