Man Utd latest news: Eric Cantona is a fan of Jose Mourinho… but the Manchester United legend would rather Pep Guardiola
The iconic No7 and former king of Old Trafford has admitted he would rather have the manager of the Red Devils' neighbours in charge of his old club
THE KING of Manchester United has spoken... and it is not good news for Jose Mourinho.
Eric Cantona is one of the club's all-time greats after his five-year spell at Old Trafford between 1992 and 1997.
This weekend will mark the 25th anniversary of his move to the Red Devils from Leeds United, which led to him winning the Premier League four times as well as two FA Cups.
With his flicked-up collar, swagger and delicious skills mixed with an explosive temperament, the star achieved legendary status in the North West - so much so that the Stretford End still sing his name today.
Despite going on to forge a successful career as actor since his premature retirement aged 31, the former forward's gaze is still firmly cast over the happenings at the Theatre of Dreams.
After the post-Sir Alex Ferguson slump, the club seem to be slowly working their way back to the top under the guidance of Mourinho.
And Cantona admits he has been impressed by the work of the Portuguese coach since his arrival in the dug-out last year.
However, he would rather have Pep Guardiola, the manager of United's neighbours Man City, in charge.
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The 51-year-old told BBC Radio Four's Today programme: "He is playing in this defensive way, which is not the identity of Manchester United.
"Both Guardiola and Mourinho are great, but I prefer attacking football, when it's more creative. It's the way I tried to play all my career."
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Speaking later on BBC Radio 5 live, Cantona added: "I cannot understand why United would take a manager who plays in a defensive way. I love Mourinho, but I prefer to watch Barcelona play.
"I prefer the way Guardiola plays, and I would prefer him as manager of Manchester United, it's more logical. I don't watch Man City because it's Man City but I would love to watch the team managed by Guardiola."
United are currently second in the Premier League and trail City by eight points.
The Red Devils have also scored 11 goals less than their main rivals, with Guardiola's men currently on a 17-game winning run.
Mourinho will be hoping he can close the gap at the top this weekend when Brighton head north to face United.
Meanwhile City travel across the Pennines to tackle Huddersfield Town.