Eric Cantona scored a host of memorable goals during his time at Manchester United, but he once said that his best ever goal came in a match against Liverpool.
It’s now been 28 years since Eric Cantona made the surprising decision to retire at just 30 years old. He was still playing at the top level, but chose to walk away while still at his best. By then, he was already a legend at Old Trafford, and it wasn’t just about his talent – he played a key role in shaping the future of Fergie’s young side.
During Cantona’s four-and-a-half seasons with United from 1992 to 1997, he picked up six major trophies, including two Premier League titles and two FA Cups.
Cantona is often mentioned as one of United’s most influential figures, credited with helping bring an end to the club’s long wait for league glory.
United could use someone like him now too. Especially with their next Premier League fixture being against Liverpool.
Cantona has been open about his feelings towards the current ownership of the club. It wasn’t always like this though; during his playing days under Sir Alex Ferguson, things were different
Cantona recalls his FA Cup final winner against Liverpool
Eric Cantona believes his winning goal against Liverpool in the 1996 FA Cup final stands out as the best of his career.
It was a tight game with few chances, but late in the second half, Cantona found the breakthrough. David James punched clear from a corner, and the ball fell to Cantona, who volleyed it into the net.
He wheeled away in celebration as United completed their Double, having already secured the Premier League title that season.
“The goal in the FA Cup final against Liverpool is my greatest ever. I volleyed home the winning goal,” Cantona told The Sun in 2016.
Eric Cantona’s impressive record against Liverpool
Beyond the standout moments, Cantona put together a strong record in fixtures against Liverpool, winning four of nine appearances while adding three goals and two assists along the way.
His goal in a 2-2 draw against them also came on his return from an eight-month ban. He’d already set up Nicky Butt for United’s opener before finding the net himself.
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While he had a habit of showing up in key moments, none was bigger than his late winner in the 1996 FA Cup final.
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