maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 28 AUGUST 2019
21
SPORTS
FOOTBALL
FORMER Manchester United forward Eric
Cantona will be awarded the Uefa Presi-
dent's Award for his commitment to helping
improve the lives of others.
The 53-year-old, who won 45 caps for
France, will be presented with the award in
Monaco on Thursday.
Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin was im-
pressed by his work since retiring.
"This award not only recognises his ca-
reer as a player of the highest calibre, but
also honours him for the person he is," said
Ceferin.
"[He is] a man who refuses compromise,
who stands up for his values, who speaks his
mind and, in particular, puts his heart and
his soul into supporting the causes he be-
lieves in."
Cantona won the old First Division title
with Leeds United in 1992 before joining
Manchester United, where he won four Pre-
mier Leagues and two FA Cups.
He retired aged 30 in 1997 and, after turn-
ing his hand to beach soccer and acting, has
been committed to helping charitable causes.
Previous winners of the award - which
"recognises outstanding achievements, pro-
fessional excellence and exemplary personal
qualities" - include David Beckham, Johan
Cruyff, Bobby Charlton, Franz Beckenbauer,
Bobby Robson and Paolo Maldini.
Ex-Manchester United forward Eric
Cantona wins Uefa President's Award
Eric Cantona scored 64 goals in 143 appearances for Manchester United
