Eric Cantona labels United the "kings of Manchester"

Eric Cantona has labelled Manchester United as the "kings of Manchester" after their 4-2 win over neighbours City on Sunday.

And he believes United, in a realistic chase for second place in the Premier League with Arsenal, can be champions next season.

The 48-year-old Frenchman, who retired in 1997 but remains one of the most enigmatic figures in world football, also contrasted favourably United's policy of blending big money buys with players developed through their youth policy with other clubs such as City who prefer to just use the chequebook.

"The derby's a special game, so it's great to win the derby," Cantona said, speaking at the Laureus Awards in Shanghai.

"I was proud and very glad. It's good because now they are the kings of the city. The two clubs are two of the best clubs in England, so it's very important to win this game.

"United's a great club but sometimes you have a season when you have to lose games and you finish fourth or fifth. Next year they can win the league. With a manager from Holland, it seems to be important for Manchester United because it's the same kind of philosophy for the game: Holland and Manchester United."

Cantona claimed that he barely watches football any more but his interest in United, and support, remains strong, praising them for their academy and likening them to Barcelona.