Manchester United Opens Premier League Season with Victory as New Signing Shines on Debut

Manchester United began their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham, a match that may have lacked the high-energy drama fans expected but delivered an important three points for the Red Devils.

The highlight of the match was the debut of summer signing Joshua Zirkzee, who made an instant impact. The 23-year-old forward, who joined United from Bologna in July, scored the decisive goal in the 87th minute, ensuring a winning start to the season for Erik ten Hag’s side.

Introduced in the 61st minute, Zirkzee wasted no time in making his presence felt at Old Trafford. He connected with an Alejandro Garnacho cross, expertly guiding the ball into the net to secure the win. Until that point, the match seemed destined for a goalless draw, with both teams struggling to break down each other’s defenses.

Bruno Fernandes was one of United’s most threatening players, coming close to scoring twice but being denied by Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno. Mason Mount also had a near miss for the hosts before Zirkzee’s late strike sealed the victory.

Last season, Manchester United finished a disappointing eighth in the Premier League, but they ended the campaign on a high note by winning the FA Cup against rivals Manchester City. This season, Ten Hag and his squad will be eager to build on that success, starting with this crucial opening win.

Elsewhere in the Premier League:

Arsenal, one of the early favorites and last season’s runners-up, begins their season on Saturday against Wolverhampton Wanderers at home. The Gunners, having finished just behind Manchester City for two consecutive seasons, will be keen to make a strong start in their pursuit to dethrone the champions.

Liverpool also kicks off their season on Saturday, marking their first Premier League match since Jürgen Klopp’s departure. New head coach Arne Slot will be looking to make a strong impression in his competitive debut against newly-promoted Ipswich.

Meanwhile, Manchester City, the reigning champions with four consecutive titles under their belt, will start their season on Sunday with a clash against Chelsea.