Cantona on soccer and the World Cup — Thursday 21 May 2026Eric Cantona is back in the spotlight and he's not mincing words about the state of soccer. The former Manchester United star sat down with BBC News to promote a new documentary on his life, and he used the moment to blast VAR for turning matches into a mess of interruptions. For American viewers catching up on the clip, his frustration hits close to home as the U.S. gears up to co-host the 2026 World Cup right here in cities like Atlanta and Miami, where fans expect fast-paced action without constant reviews slowing everything down. Cantona made it clear he has no plans to watch the upcoming tournament. He pointed to what he sees as the game's lost passion and over-reliance on technology, a stance that resonates with U.S. sports fans who've debated similar replay systems in the NFL and NBA. While millions here are already planning watch parties and youth clinics ahead of the big event on home soil, the French legend's boycott highlights a bigger question about whether the World Cup still delivers the pure excitement that once drew new American audiences. His comments come at a time when soccer is surging in popularity across the States, with MLS clubs reporting record attendance and kids trading football helmets for cleats. Cantona's take serves as a reminder that even legends worry the sport risks losing its soul amid all the changes.Watch the full video from Associated Press below.