Manchester United news: Zlatan Ibrahimovic responds to 'King Eric' Cantona calling him 'the prince'

The Swedish striker has the charisma to challenge Cantona's cult status at Old Trafford

(Getty)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has responded to Eric Cantona after the former Manchester United forward, known as ‘King Eric’ during his time at Old Trafford, labelled him ‘the prince’.

The Swedish striker joined the club on a free transfer earlier this month after the expiration of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain, becoming one of Jose Mourinho’s first signings in the process.

Ibrahimovic, who has enjoyed cult status throughout his career, was welcomed to Old Trafford by Cantona, United’s own icon from their period of dominance during the mid-1990s.

“I have a personal message to Zlatan,” Cantona said. “You have decided for United and it is the best choice you've ever made. But one last thing, there can be only one king in Manchester.

“You can become a prince if you want and jersey number 7 is yours if you are interested,” he added. “It is my welcome gift to you. The king is gone. Long live the prince.”

Ibrahimovic has now responded in kind, in quotes picked up by Fifa’s official website.

“I heard what he [Cantona] said and I congratulate him because I have always admired him,” he said. “But he should know that I won’t be king of Manchester. I will be God of Manchester.”

Ibrahimovic is yet to make his first United appearance, with Mourinho expected to rest him for much of the club’s pre-season tour.

It is not thought that the 34-year-old striker will pull on a United shirt until the pre-season friendlies against Galatasaray on 30 July or Everton on 3 August.