Eric Cantona has publicly backed a football shirt campaign supporting imprisoned Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti. The former Manchester United captain shared a photo on Instagram wearing a “Free Marwan” jersey this week. This shirt is inspired by the Palestinian national team’s 2002 kit. That year marks when Israeli forces first imprisoned Barghouti during the Second Intifada.
The campaign highlights that Barghouti was serving as a parliamentarian at the time of his arrest. Cantona shared a statement describing him as a passionate football fan who believes in the power of sport. “Like Nelson Mandela, his struggle for freedom has come to symbolise the struggle of an entire nation,” the post noted. Barghouti was convicted in 2004 by a court he did not recognise.
Cantona Hails Barghouti as Symbol of National Struggle
The statement claimed the trial was flawed and illegal according to international legal experts. This campaign arrives during a 2026 World Cup year. Barghouti will miss the tournament with his children for the seventh time since his detention began. “It is a reminder of what football truly stands for: unity, fairness, freedom, integrity, and resilience,” the statement added.
Cantona’s support follows recent international efforts to secure the leader’s release. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa became the first head of state to sign a “Free Barghouti” pledge earlier this month. This surge in support comes amid reports of escalating abuse against the 66-year-old in Israeli prisons. Palestinians recently ranked Barghouti as their most popular politician in multiple opinion polls.
The “Free Marwan” shirt aims to raise awareness of his long-term imprisonment and the broader Palestinian cause. Cantona has frequently used his platform to advocate for Palestinian human rights in recent years. He previously voiced support for Lajee Celtic Club in the West Bank and called for sporting boycotts. His latest gesture has gained significant traction across social media among activists and football fans alike.
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