When Manchester United faced Liverpool on October 1, 1995, the footballing world had its eyes on one man: Eric Cantona. The enigmatic Frenchman was making his long-awaited return from an eight-month suspension following his infamous "kung-fu kick" incident at Selhurst Park. As United hosted their fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford, anticipation was electric. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, but the story was all about Cantona's comeback.
The Build-Up
Eric Cantona’s ban had cast a shadow over Manchester United's previous season. Despite missing their talisman, United narrowly missed out on winning the Premier League, finishing second to Blackburn Rovers. Cantona’s return to the fold felt symbolic—he was the man who would reinvigorate United’s title charge in the 1995/96 season. Against Liverpool, one of their fiercest rivals, there could be no more significant stage for his return.
Liverpool, meanwhile, were in the early stages of their development under Roy Evans, playing an exciting brand of football with their famous “Spice Boys,” featuring young talents like Robbie Fowler and Steve McManaman.
The Line-ups
Manchester United (Manager: Alex Ferguson):
- GK: Peter Schmeichel
- RB: Gary Neville
- CB: Steve Bruce
- CB: Gary Pallister
- LB: Phil Neville
- RM: Lee Sharpe
- CM: Roy Keane
- CM: Nicky Butt
- LM: Ryan Giggs
- FW: Eric Cantona
- FW: Andy Cole
Liverpool (Manager: Roy Evans):
- GK: David James
- CB: John Scales
- CB: Phil Babb
- CB: Neil Ruddock
- RM: Jason McAteer
- LM: Steve Harkness
- CM: Jamie Redknapp
- CM: Michael Thomas
- AM: Steve McManaman
- FW: Ian Rush
- FW: Robbie Fowler
The Match
The game kicked off with intensity, and within two minutes, Cantona had already made his mark—literally. After a swift attack, Cantona's clever pass led to Nicky Butt scoring the opener. The roar of Old Trafford was deafening, and Cantona, wearing his trademark upturned collar, had announced his return in style.
However, Liverpool hit back quickly. Robbie Fowler, in his prime, showed his finishing class by scoring twice to turn the game on its head. His first goal came after a delicate lob over Peter Schmeichel, and his second saw him calmly slot home following a pass from Ian Rush.
Cantona’s influence continued to grow as the game progressed. His play was as effortless as ever—touches of brilliance and passes that cut through Liverpool’s defense. United pushed for an equalizer, and in the 71st minute, it came in the most fitting fashion: a penalty. After Ryan Giggs was brought down in the box, Cantona stepped up with cool assurance to convert, sending David James the wrong way.
Old Trafford erupted once more. It wasn’t just the fact that Cantona had scored—it was the manner in which he had done so, with ice-cold precision and nonchalant style. The match ended 2-2, but the result almost felt secondary to the spectacle of Cantona's comeback.
The Aftermath
Cantona’s return had an immediate impact. His presence on the field seemed to lift the entire Manchester United squad, and they went on to win the Premier League and FA Cup double that season. Cantona’s influence was undeniable—he scored crucial goals, created chances, and provided leadership that drove United to their third league title in four years.
For Liverpool, the match showed their potential but also their fragility. Despite the brilliance of Fowler and McManaman, they lacked the consistency to challenge for the title, eventually finishing third in the league.
Cantona's Legacy
Cantona's return against Liverpool was more than just a comeback; it was a rebirth. He went on to become one of the most iconic figures in Manchester United’s history, leading by example with his vision, creativity, and leadership. The 1995/96 season would be Cantona’s crowning glory, as he captained United to a historic double and cemented his legacy as one of the Premier League's greatest ever players.
In the end, this match against Liverpool was a pivotal moment not only for Cantona but for Manchester United’s season. It marked the return of a king, and for United fans, it was a day they will never forget.