Manchester United suffered a 0-2 defeat to Hull City in the Premier League opening match. This is a result that quickly overshadowed the positive pre-season signals of the "Red Devils". Michael Carrick's team played below par, especially in the first half, when they let the opponent score 2 goals from set pieces.
Hull entered the game full of determination in their first return to the Premier League after 9 years. After a relatively balanced early period, the home team gradually gained the upper hand thanks to their physical and fast playing style. Man United faced difficulties in direct attacks, and could not create enough pressure on the opponent's defense.
Semi Ajayi opened the score for Hull from a corner kick, before Nobel Mendy doubled the gap with a header after a free kick situation. Both conceded goals exposed limitations in Man United's defense, while the attack almost did not create a strong enough response.
Oli McBurnie also caused the away team's defense to falter many times. The Hull striker continuously took advantage of his physique to put pressure on Ayden Heaven, a 19-year-old player who was given a starting opportunity by Carrick. M.U only had a few significant attacks in the first half.
Carrick hopes Marcus Rashford's appearance after the break can make a difference. This striker made his first official appearance for Man United after 618 days, but the return did not go as expected. Rashford could not help the away team's attack become sharper, while Hull still controlled the game relatively comfortably.
The Red Devils" finished the match with only 5 shots on target. Harry Maguire's shot from outside the penalty area in the 84th minute was one of the rare efforts of the away team to find a goal. Conversely, Hull played more and more confidently when receiving strong cheers from the fans at MKM stadium.
This victory is of special significance to Hull. This is the first time they have defeated Man United in the league since 1974, and also marks their return to the Premier League at home in a way that could not be more impressive.
Before the match, Hull was considered one of the relegation candidates. However, the performance against Man United proved that Sergej Jakirovic's team did not return to the Premier League just to play the role of underdog. The home team organized defense well, fought fiercely and effectively exploited the opponent's weaknesses.
With Man United, this defeat raises a series of questions about the quality of the squad. Carlos Baleba is said to have reached an agreement worth 70 million pounds and will strengthen the midfield, but the Cameroonian midfielder alone can hardly solve the whole problem.
Carrick admitted that defeat is very unacceptable, but he does not want the team to react excessively after a match. "We came here to win, so not getting anything is extremely disappointing" - Carrick said.
Carrick's message is calmness. He understands the defeat to Hull is a heavy blow, but does not want the team to change direction after just one match. However, the performance at MKM shows that Man United still has many problems to solve if they want to turn the title competition ambition into reality.
