The former French striker is nominated in five of the 11 categories in the awards to mark 20 years since the launch of the Premier League, including best player - a category in which there are some notable absentees.
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney has failed to make the 10-player shortlist, as has David Beckham, Liverpool's Steven Gerrard, and Chelsea duo Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.
Cantona is also nominated for best goal, most memorable quote, best goal celebration and best striker.
The player and manager of the 20 seasons awards will be announced on May 15.
The shortlists were drawn up after votes from national newspapers, and the winners will be decided either by a panel or via a public vote on www.premierleague.com.
Alan Shearer has four nominations, while Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry have three each.
Matt Le Tissier is the only player with two nominations in the 'best goal' category.
Best manager shortlist: Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho, Harry Redknapp, David Moyes.
Best player shortlist: Dennis Bergkamp, Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Thierry Henry, Roy Keane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Scholes, Alan Shearer, Patrick Vieira, Gianfranco Zola.
Source: PA
Source: PA