Sporting the club's famous no.7 on the back of his shirt, the Frenchman's arrival at United would be the catalyst for years of success under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson.
A man that once was the face of bitter rivals Leeds United was now leading their fierce foes to domestic dominance. Quite a fitting narrative for a career that has had it all.
Cantona's road to royalty has not been without its bumps, though, most notably during his turbulent time for Marseille after signing for the French club in 1988.
Having outgrown Auxerre, Cantona was destined for something greater - and plenty of suitors were lining up to secure his signature.