Eric Cantona claimed Catalonia won the 2010 World Cup, not Spain.
He made this statement ahead of the Laureus Sports Awards in Shanghai.
What happened?
Cantona credited Catalonia with the win due to the large number of Barcelona players in the Spanish squad.
He said "Catalonia won the World Cup" and "Spain did not win the World Cup, Catalonia did".
Why it matters for Eric Cantona
Cantona's comments come at a time of heightened discussion about Catalonian independence in Spain.
Over two million people voted in an independence referendum just five months prior.
What comes next?
The Spanish government deemed the referendum illegal and an act of propaganda.
Cantona's statement may fuel the ongoing debate about Catalonia's autonomy.
Spain's 2010 World Cup squad actually featured seven players from Barcelona.
Eight players if David Villa is included, who reached an agreement with the Catalan club ahead of the tournament.
Seven of these players started in the World Cup final.
Cantona's comments have sparked a discussion about the role of Catalan players in Spain's World Cup win.
The topic of Catalonian independence remains a contentious issue in Spain.
The Laureus Sports Awards in Shanghai provided a platform for Cantona to express his views.
His statement has been reported by various news outlets, including the Guardian.
Cantona is known for his outspoken views on European politics.
His comments on Catalonia's role in the 2010 World Cup win are likely to generate further debate.
The 2010 World Cup was a significant event in Spanish football history.
Cantona's statement has brought attention back to this momentous occasion.