On an electrifying opening night of the Premier League season, Manchester United clinched a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford. The match was decided by a late goal from debutant Joshua Zirkzee, who came off the bench to make an immediate impact.
The Dutch striker, recently signed from Bologna for a reported $47 million, showcased his innate goal-scoring instincts in the 87th minute. Zirkzee deftly extended his left foot to redirect a precision cross from fellow substitute Alejandro Garnacho, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
“To win here in my first home game and to grab a goal, it couldn’t be better,” an elated Zirkzee remarked after the match.
Manchester United’s lineup featured three of their new acquisitions, with defenders Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt also making their debuts. Manager Erik ten Hag, who retained his position despite an eighth-place finish last season, expressed cautious optimism.
“It’s just the first game, but it’s good to strengthen the belief and confidence in the team,” ten Hag stated. “I have seen the places where we need to improve. But that’s normal in the first game of the season.”
Despite starting without a traditional striker due to Zirkzee’s fitness levels and an injury to Rasmus Hojlund, United created several opportunities. Midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount found themselves with clear chances but were denied by Fulham’s resilient goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who delivered outstanding saves to keep his team in contention.
Leno’s heroics, however, were not enough to secure a point for Fulham. In stoppage time, Garnacho nearly doubled the lead but missed an open goal, a fact acknowledged by ten Hag.
“That’s the only criticism I have of the team,” he admitted. “To kill. Kill in the box.”
Defender Noussair Mazraoui impressed during his 81 minutes on the pitch before being replaced by de Ligt, both players having joined from Bayern Munich just days prior. Zirkzee’s introduction in the 61st minute ultimately proved decisive.
The victory marks a positive start for Manchester United, who have invested heavily—approximately $180 million—in new talent as they aim to return to their former glory under new leadership.
The Premier League’s opening weekend continues with six matches on Saturday. Notably, Liverpool will play their first game under new manager Arne Slot against promoted Ipswich, while Arsenal hosts Wolverhampton. Reigning champions Manchester City will begin their title defense at Chelsea on Sunday.
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Manchester United get past Fulham 1-0 in Premier League season opener
cgtn.com
