Skip to content

Eric Cantona says Manchester United are 'losing a generation of young players'

"I suffer and I suffer even more when I see City play so wonderfully," says former United forward

Chris Smalling (L) and Luke Shaw (R) react to Manchester United's defeat against Juventus
Image: Eric Cantona criticised Manchester United's defeat against Juventus

Eric Cantona says Manchester United are "losing a generation of young players" due to their style of play under Jose Mourinho.

The manager's future at Manchester United has been brought into question in recent weeks, with the club 10th in the Premier League, and having lost 1-0 to Juventus in the Champions League.

Former striker Cantona - who won four Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson - says he "suffers" watching United, and that young players are now looking to Manchester City for players and styles to emulate.

"It's the way you play," Cantona said at an event, as reported by The Republik of Mancunia.

Eric Cantona made 143 appearances for Manchester United
Image: Cantona won four Premier League titles and two FA Cups at United

"You can lose games but you take risks. You lose against Juventus and they have 70 per cent possession of the ball at Old Trafford. Could you imagine that with Ferguson on the bench?

"I suffer and I suffer even more when I see City play so wonderfully.

"I think kids need to have an example. They need great players, great movements, creative football to identify themselves to a player or a team. And I think they are now losing a generation of young players.

Also See:

"These young players identify themselves to the way City play. Can we accept that? No."

Mourinho expects Lukaku to start scoring once more following his barren run
Image: Jose Mourinho future has been brought into question after United's start to the season

Cantona describes Mourinho's relationship with United as "not the right man for the right woman".

The former French international believes the club would benefit from having a former player as a manager, but distanced himself from any interest in taking change of United in the future.

Neville: The state of play for Man Utd
Neville: The state of play for Man Utd

Gary Neville on Manchester United's struggles, the Juve loss, what needs to change, Everton's visit and Ben Thornley...

"At United, they never give a chance to a player who knows the club from the inside, who knows the identity and philosophy of the club," he added.

"I don't want people to think I'm saying this because I want to be manager of Manchester United. It's just the truth.

"(Ryan) Giggs? Any player who wants to be the manager they should give them the chance."

Play Super 6
Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win £250K.

Around Sky