Eric Cantona demands Israel's suspension from international football after a UN report concluded genocide.
The former Manchester United player spoke at a London concert, urging FIFA and UEFA to take action.
What happened?
Cantona joined calls for Israel's suspension at the Together for Palestine concert in London.
He cited the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry's report on Israel's response to terrorist attacks.
Why it matters for Eric Cantona
Cantona knows international football is more than just sport, it's culture and politics.
He compared Israel's situation to Russia's suspension from FIFA and UEFA after invading Ukraine.
The Manchester United great asked why Israel is still allowed to participate in international football.
What comes next?
Israel's foreign ministry denounced the UN report as distorted and false.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has already called for Israel to be thrown out of world sport.
Other countries, including the Republic of Ireland and Netherlands, have threatened to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel takes part.
Cantona's comments came a day after the UN report was released, on October 8, 2023.
He urged clubs and players to refuse to play against Israeli teams.
The concert also featured actor Benedict Cumberbatch reciting a poem by Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish.
Cantona's statement has sparked talk of a potential boycott of the World Cup if Israel qualifies.
As of October 8, 2023, it has been 716 days since Amnesty International called the situation a genocide.
Cantona played for France and Manchester United, and knows the power of international football.
He wants to see Israel suspended from international football, citing double standards.
The situation is ongoing, with many countries and organizations calling for action.
Cantona's comments have added to the growing pressure on FIFA and UEFA to take action.
The former player's statement has been met with support from many, including Irish club Bohemians.
They wrote to UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, calling for Israel's immediate suspension.
The situation continues to unfold, with many watching to see what actions will be taken.