Manchester United’s new Premier League season began with a nightmare at the MKM Stadium. Newly promoted Hull City produced a fearless 2-0 win, leaving Michael Carrick’s side with more questions than answers.
Hull had not played in the Premier League since 2017. Yet there was little fear in the Tigers as they attacked United with pace, power and belief.
Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 17th minute. He reacted quickest inside the box after Senne Lammens had been tested, turning Hull’s pressure into a dream start.
The second goal came 21 minutes later. Nobel Mendy rose highest to meet Regan Slater’s excellent free-kick and powered his header beyond Lammens.
United had chances, but they lacked the sharpness needed to hurt a confident Hull defence. Bryan Mbeumo came closest, forcing Konstantinos Tzolakis into a fine save after the break.
Carrick also turned to Marcus Rashford in the second half. It was Rashford’s first competitive appearance for United in 618 days, but his return could not change the game.
The result was especially painful for United because their problems looked familiar. Captain Bruno Fernandes admitted they had repeated mistakes from last season.
“Same mistakes as we did last season,” Fernandes said after the game. “We needed to press more, be more aggressive, and then again we need to work on set-plays.”
Hull, meanwhile, looked ready for life back in the top flight. Their fans created a fierce atmosphere, while Sergej Jakirović became the first Bosnian to manage in the Premier League.
For Carrick, the defeat is an early warning. United lost their Premier League opener for a second straight season, something they had not suffered since 1973.
Carrick refused to panic. “We’re bitterly disappointed with the result, but we won’t let it knock us,” he said.
But with the transfer window still open, this performance may strengthen calls for defensive reinforcements. Hull came to roar, and United left searching for answers.
