Auxerre – The foundation of a rising star.

Eric Cantona’s professional career started with Auxerre, where he spent two years in the youth team before making his debut in November 1983. After a spell of national service, Cantona netted his first goal for Auxerre in a 2-0 win over Rouen in May 1985. On the final matchday of that season, Auxerre needed just a point to secure qualification for the UEFA Cup. Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Cantona stepped up, scoring the equalising goal from 25 yards out and unveiling his talent to the footballing world for the first time.

Cantona displayed early signs of his talent and unpredictability on the field. He had already developed a style marked by audacious dribbling, technical finesse, and an innate ability to create goal-scoring opportunities. These qualities would become defining features of his game in the years to come.

Although Cantona’s time in the first team at Auxerre was relatively brief, it was a crucial in his development as a footballer. He was gaining valuable experience in one of the top leagues in Europe, which would later serve as a strong foundation for his career.

Marseille – The childhood dream.

Cantona was a part of the France under-21 side that clinched the 1988 U21 European Championships, where he notably scored a hat-trick against England in the quarter-final. Shortly after the tournament, he completed a transfer to his boyhood club, Marseille, for a French record fee of FF22 million.

However, Cantona faced difficulties in making a significant impact at Marseille. In January 1989, during a friendly match against Torpedo Moscow, he kicked the ball into the crowd and tore off his shirt after being substituted. In response, the club banned him for a month.

Struggling to settle in Marseille, Cantona moved to Bordeaux and later Montpellier on loan deals. At Montpellier, he was involved in a physical altercation with teammate Jean-Claude Lemoult and even threw his boots at Lemoult’s face. Six of his teammates demanded Cantona’s dismissal, but the club chose to retain his services. Cantona played an instrumental role later that season as Montpellier went on to win the French Cup.

Upon his return to Marseille, Cantona regained his form. However, after a change in management, he was sold to Nimes for FF10 million. In December 1991, during a match for Nimes, Cantona expressed his frustration by throwing the ball at the referee following one of his decisions. This action resulted in a one-month ban after a disciplinary hearing. In response, Cantona walked up to each member of the hearing committee, calling them each an “idiot.” His ban was subsequently extended to two months, and Cantona announced his retirement from football.

The French national coach, Michel Platini, who was a fan of Cantona, persuaded him to make a comeback. Cantona moved to England where he would restart his career.

Leeds United – The turning point.

Eric Cantona joined Leeds United in 1992. His arrival at Elland Road marked a significant turning point in both his career and the club’s fortunes. At the time, Leeds United was competing in the English First Division, which later became the Premier League.

Cantona’s impact on the club was immediate and transformative. His playing style and charisma made him an instant sensation. Fans were drawn to his vision, dribbling skills, and audacious flair.

During the 1991-92 season, Cantona played a crucial role as Leeds clinched the English First Division title. It was their first top-flight championship in 18 years. Cantona’s contribution was significant, as he scored 25 goals in all competitions.

Cantona’s performances at Leeds not only led to silverware but also to a growing reputation as a footballing icon. He was known for his fearless and inventive style of play, captivating fans and inspiring his teammates. His time at Leeds laid the foundation for the success he would achieve later in his career. His influence on the club and the English game was undeniable. While his performances were a glimpse of the extraordinary talent and charisma that would make him a football legend.

Cantona’s time at Leeds United came to an abrupt end in 1992. His relationship with Leeds manager, Howard Wilkinson, had broken down. After a disappointing performance in a Champions League defeat to Rangers at Ibrox, Cantona walked straight down the tunnel and was subsequently dropped for the next match against QPR. A couple of weeks later, following a League Cup defeat to Watford, he responded by submitting a transfer request.

Later that month, Cantona transferred to Manchester United, where he would go on to solidify his legendary status and remain celebrated as one of the most iconic figures in football history.

Manchester United – The King’s reign.

Cantona’s arrival at Manchester United in November 1992 marked the beginning of a golden era for the club. The transfer, which cost a mere £1.2 million, was one of the greatest bargains in football history. Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager of Manchester United at the time, recognised Cantona’s potential to transform his United team.

Cantona’s influence was immediate. Not only was he a prolific goal scorer, he was also the catalyst for success. During his five-year tenure at Old Trafford, Cantona led Manchester United to numerous trophies, including four Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

What set Cantona apart was not just his footballing ability, but his charismatic and enigmatic personality. Fans affectionately referred to him as “King Eric” signifying his presence on the pitch. He had an unmatched ability to inspire his teammates with his leadership and the belief that they could achieve greatness.

Cantona’s playing style was marked by his creativity, audacity, and the ability to make the impossible seem effortless. He often created moments of magic from seemingly impossible positions. His presence on the field elevated the performances of those around him. He played a pivotal role in transforming Manchester United from a good team into a great one.

One of Cantona’s most memorable achievements during his time at Manchester United was his role in helping the club secure the Premier League title in the 1993-94 season. This title ended Manchester United’s 26-year wait for a league championship. Cantona’s contributions, including 25 goals in all competitions, were instrumental in this historic achievement.

The incident – “When the seagulls follow the trawler”

While Cantona’s time at Manchester United was glittered with remarkable success and unforgettable moments, it was not without controversy. The infamous “Kung-Fu Kick” incident in January 1995 remains one of the most notorious moments in football history.

During a match against Crystal Palace, Cantona was shown a red card. In a moment of frustration, he launched a kung-fu-style kick at a heckling fan. The incident was captured by the television cameras making it one of the most publicly scrutinised events in football history.

The incident sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world. Cantona’s actions were widely condemned, and the footballing authorities acted swiftly. The Football Association imposed a nine-month ban on Cantona. He also faced a £20,000 fine and had to carry out 120 hours of community service.

Journalists and reporters eagerly awaited Cantona’s response to his suspension after the high-profile disciplinary hearing had concluded on March 4, 1995. “When seagulls follow the trawler, it is because they think sardines will be thrown into the sea,” he proclaimed before rising and exiting the press conference, leaving the gathered reporters in a state of profound bewilderment. Was this an enigmatic retirement message of some kind? It wasn’t, but the quote has gone down in football history.

While the kung-fu incident tarnished his reputation, it also highlighted the complexity of Cantona’s character. His banishment from football for nearly nine months was a significant blow to both Manchester United and the player himself. United had initially considered terminating Cantona’s contract. Instead, they stood by their star player and eagerly awaited his return which came in October, 1995.

An early retirement.

In May 1997, at the age of just 30, Eric Cantona announced his sudden retirement from football. His departure left a void at Manchester United both on and off the pitch. However, Cantona’s contribution to English football remained unforgettable.

After retiring, Cantona pursued various interests, including acting. He also had a brief stint as the director of football for the New York Cosmos. Today, Eric Cantona’s legacy endures as one of the iconic figures in football history. His impact on English football extended beyond statistics and titles. He played a crucial role in popularising the English Premier League as it established itself as a global football powerhouse. He brought a touch of continental flair, setting a standard for foreign players in the league.

Cantona’s style of play, his ability to conjure moments of magic, and his leadership influenced a generation of young footballers. Players like Thierry Henry, Zinedine Zidane, and David Beckham drew inspiration from the French maestro.

In 2019, Eric Cantona received the prestigious “UEFA President’s Award” for his outstanding contribution to the sport. The award recognised not only his brilliance on the field but also his charismatic personality, solidifying his status as a football legend.

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The post Sporting Icons: Eric Cantona, the maverick who ruled English football. appeared first on The Terrace Apparel.

Lee: Thanks for joining us at The Edit, Josh. Tell us about your Twitter profile @nocontextunited and what people can expect if they follow you.

Josh: It started back in 2019 and the whole ‘no context’ thing was really popping off on Twitter, especially gimmick accounts for popular movies and TV series. It wasn’t long before one or two football ones started appearing on my feed. I remember seeing an “Out of Context Arsenal” profile appearing and it just blew up. Naturally, I had to make one for United. There is an endless stream of United related media that can be taken out of context.

Twitter Journey

Lee: So how did @nocontextunited start from there?

Josh: The account started with content from Lois van Gaal, and his many bizarre press conferences, or GIFs from cult heroes like Anderson, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck. It blew up immediately, much to my surprise. I started posting some stuff on the way back from university one day and didn’t think much of it. By the end of the day the account had over 25,000 followers. It was mad. Not long after the account was featured in some online articles, and it just kept growing from there.

In the last few years a couple of United players have interacted with the account. Players like Bruno Fernandez, Andreas Pereira and Ander Herrera. It also gave me the chance to do a video interview with former player, Nick Culkin. I had a good chat with Nick about his appearance vs. Arsenal during United’s treble winning season. He actually broke the record in that game for the shortest substitute appearance of all-time, his ONLY Premier League appearance as well. The clip of his famous substitution featured on my Twitter account and someone had tagged him in the comments, which prompted me to reach out. He’s such a nice guy and had some great stories to tell. It was a real pleasure speaking with him.

In the last few years a couple of United players have interacted with the account. Players like Bruno Fernandez, Andreas Pereira and Ander Herrera.

Lee: So who is the audience for your Twitter page?

Josh: Mainly United fans, but I’m sure there are a lot of rival fans that enjoy the content as well. Particularly after a defeat for United! The account is now closing in on 150,000 followers, which is a crazy milestone. I’d like to evolve the account one day and turn it into something bigger. For now it’s fun just using it for what it is. Anyone wanting to follow the account can find us @nocontextunited on Twitter, @nocontextunited on Facebook and on @nocontextunited VOLE.

Favourite Players

Lee: Who is your favourite United player, and why?

Josh: In the current squad, it would have to be Rashford. He’s a local lad and I’ve really enjoyed watching his progression with United. He’s an admirable role-model for the younger generation with everything that he’s done on, and off, the pitch.

He’s an admirable role-model for the younger generation with everything that his done on, and off, the pitch.

Lee: And what about outside of United. Who is your favourite player that plays for another club?

Josh: Neymar. He’s just a special player. There aren’t many players like him anymore who play with so much skill and flair. I used to love Ronaldinho when I was younger and Neymar has elements of him in his game.

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Football Memories

Lee: What is your earliest footballing memory?

Josh: The 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Whilst I can’t remember watching any one game in particular, I do remember that was the first time I really got into football. I used to go to an after school club at primary school and the games and highlights would sometimes be on the TV. And from them on it just stuck, I was addicted just like every other football fan.

Lee: What is your favourite footballing memory?

Josh: The first time watching United play live. It was at Old Trafford as well. I’ve been lucky enough to go plenty of times since, but the first time will always be my favourite. United beat Spurs 3-0 in the 2014/15 season and Rooney, who is my favourite player ever, scored a great goal and did that iconic boxing celebration literally right in front of me. I’ll never forget that.

Season Expectations

Lee: Where do you think United will finish this season?

Josh: I think we’ll be good enough for the top four. If we can get a 4th place finish and win a trophy, I think most United fans would be pretty happy. The main thing for United fans this season is seeing a change in the attitude of the players and seeing more structure to the way we play. Erik Ten Hag has made a great start so far, and hopefully, this will continue.

The Terrace Apparel

I love what you do at The Terrace Apparel. I’m really please that we were able to collaborate on the Wayne Rooney and Lois van Gaal designs. They’re both iconic moments from United’s recent history and are always popular features on @nocontextunited. I’d urge any United fan to take a look at them using the links below.

Wayne Rooney T-Shirt

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Louis Van Gaal T-Shirt

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The post Fan Interview: with Manchester United fan, and Twitter legend, Joshua Long appeared first on The Terrace Apparel.