Despite a strong finish last season, optimism for Man Utd's 2026-2027 Premier League campaign was quickly dampened by a surprise defeat. Under Michael Carrick, the team had performed well since January 2026, winning 12 of 17 matches, securing a third-place finish, and a return to the Champions League. This success fueled significant optimism, with the Opta supercomputer giving the "red devils" a 6,2% chance of winning the Premier League title, trailing only Liverpool, Man City, and Arsenal.
However, the events at MKM Stadium in Kingston upon Hull on 22/8 brought Man Utd back to earth. In the 15th minute, Oliver McBurnie's powerful header forced goalkeeper Senne Lammens into a full-stretch save, pushing the ball over the bar. This early chance served as a warning sign for the visiting defense, indicating a challenging match ahead.
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Nobel Mendy celebrates his goal, making the score 2-0 in Hull City's victory over Man Utd in the first round of the Premier League at MKM Stadium, Kingston upon Hull, England on 22/8. Photo: Reuters |
Hull City capitalized on their pressure soon after. From a left-wing corner, McBurnie's close-range effort was blocked by Lammens directly on the goal line. However, Man Utd players hesitated, allowing center-back Semi Ajayi to easily tap the rebound into an open net. This marked Ajayi's first Premier League goal since January 2021, when he scored for West Brom against Wolves.
The concession of the first goal unsettled Man Utd, while Hull played with confidence, consistently exploiting set-piece situations. In the 38th minute, the hosts doubled their lead, again from a set piece. A free kick from the left flank saw Regan Slater deliver a well-placed ball for Nobel Mendy, who made a diving header across goal. Lammens could only watch as the ball found the back of the net.
Ajayi and Mendy are now the 8th and 9th Hull players to score against Man Utd in the Premier League. They join Daniel Cousin, Bernard Mendy, Geovanni, Craig Fagan, James Chester, David Meyler, and Matty Fryatt in this exclusive list.
Hong Duy
