Inside Man Utd legend Eric Cantona’s travel company which offers cooking lessons from Arsenal icon Emmanuel Petit
MANCHESTER United legend Eric Cantona always travelled well when he was a player, except maybe to Selhurst Park.
But now, he’s proving to be a successful travel operator with his company Looking FC.
The iconic Red Devils No7 launched his travel brand in 2022 – inviting football fans to experience four-day adventures in a major city, where they will take in an experience with a football legend AND get tickets to a huge fixture.
King Eric, who famously got sent off for his kung-fu kick on a Crystal Palace fan, revealed: “Our goal is to create the most passionate football trips on Earth. To allow football fans to discover the world and its cities through its local football culture.
“Through the eyes of the players that often write its history but rarely tell it. We want our community to feel the love, the agony, the ecstasy, the passion of being a football fan.”
The Looking FC works alongside travel company DHARMA to deliver these incredible trips.
Cantona will host fans for two special occasions – one in Naples for the Derby del Sole between Napoli and Roma, and another in Manchester for the derby with Man Utd’s rivals Manchester City.
However, he has roped in a number of pals, including former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit, to offer their personalities to the cause.
Here’s what you could do.
Huge games on our shores
Arsenal and Man Utd matches are always spicy encounters.
And your guide Petit knows a thing or two about playing those ‘fiery’ games.
Fans who book a trip with the 1998 France World Cup winner for the December clash between the two Premier League giants will get a tour of London.
They’ll also get a cooking masterclass with the ex-midfielder.
Petit, 54, said: “The Gunners are forever in my heart. I cannot wait to return to London in December for such a unique experience with fans. I’ll take the opportunity to give some cooking tips and see what you are made of. Unless you are French you may not cook well… but don’t worry, I can fix it!”
For April’s visit of the Cityzens to Old Trafford, you will be hosted by Cantona himself who will take you to the pub for a drink or two.
Another trip gives fans the opportunity to attend a Champions League clash between PSG and Atletico Madrid.
Former Paris star Javier Pastore, who played for Argentina, will be on hand to challenge you to a five-a-side game.
“Paris is like my home and I can’t wait to be there again with fans. I challenge anyone to join our 5-a-side match,” Pastore said.
“But please remember that I play to win! The next day, it’s the clash between PSG and Atlético de Madrid at the Parc des Princes. Keep an eye out because… Ici c’est Paris!”
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And there’s more…
So far, there are 11 experiences planned.
These include beach football with Portugal’s Nuno Gomes in Lisbon, a padel tournament with Italian 2006 World Cup winner Marco Materazzi in Milan, ringing in the New Year in Glasgow in style with Claudia Caniggia and a 5-a-side with ex-Liverpool star Djibril Cissé in Athens, overlooking the Parthenon.
The Looking FC trips start from around £740 GBP [$990 USD] for Meet the Legend Packages for those who only want to participate in the Legend-hosted experiences.
For more information, visit their website.