Cantona: "U.S. will win the World Cup within 20 Years"

Eric Cantona believes the United States will win the World Cup within the next two decades.

In a fascinating interview with the New York Times, the Frenchman spoke of his optimism for the future of football in America.

When asked if he truly believed they could do it within 20 years, Cantona replied: "Yes. I am sure. I’m sure that before 20 years the U.S. will win the World Cup because players like Franz Beckenbauer and Pelé came here."



Speaking about his new role with the New York Cosmos, he also took time to pay tribute to his former manager.

"Ferguson is a kind of genius. He had so many different generations of players now. He’s 70 and works with players 18 years old but adapts himself to all generations."

The former United captain believes Fergie is the man holding the club together.

"All I will say is that I think Ferugson will stay as the manager, after that, there will be more problems. Today, he is like Gandhi on the game side."


Cantona was recently appointed Director of Soccer at the Cosmos. "It's a wonderful project," he said. "It's like a mixture between football and art."

MLS Blighty's feature on the New York Cosmos' rebirth will begin soon.

Philip Wright-Lewis
@P_W_L