Former Manchester United centre-forward Eric Cantona has conceded that he is a supporter of Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho.

Despite admitting that he is "not a fan" of the style of football that Mourinho's teams produce, Cantona has praised the 50-year-old for his coaching ability.

"I'm not a fan of his style of play, but he has an amazing personality. He is very intelligent, has incredible charisma and a rather special way of managing things. He says that a coach needs to be an actor and I agree with him," he told Le Matin. "It's important not to always show your emotions when you're surrounded by your players. It's all about what the players need to see and need to hear.

"Will it benefit the team or not when their coach enters the dressing room frustrated and throws around teacups? It all depends on the situation and Mourinho knows exactly how to behave in every situation.

"He always draws attention to himself. Not just because of his ego, but because he wants to take the pressure off his players. People are talking about Mourinho when there's a team with world champions. I really admire what he does."

Cantona called time on his playing career in 1997 following a five-year stint with United.