United face newly-promoted Hull in today’s early Premier League kick-off, with the visitors from Manchester installed as favourites for the encounter at the MKM Stadium. Carrick has urged caution despite United’s expected superiority.
Sesko has resumed training following his injury absence and could feature in today’s matchday group. De Ligt continues his rehabilitation from a muscle problem but will not be available. Mount remains uncertain after suffering a pre-season setback.
Hull’s McBurnie poses a significant threat, having found the net 18 times during the Tigers’ Championship campaign, including the decisive strike in the play-off final against Middlesbrough at Wembley.
England will officiate proceedings, supported by Ledger and Howson. Kavanagh serves as fourth official, with Salisbury on VAR and Howard assisting. England previously refereed last season’s fiery league encounter between these clubs at Old Trafford and took charge of the FA Cup final.
United begin their season with a trip to face the newly-promoted side, with Champions League participation secured for the campaign ahead. Despite the seemingly favourable draw against the 2025/26 play-off winners, Carrick emphasised Hull’s threat during Thursday’s media briefing.
Lammens starts between the posts. Dalot retained the right-back position throughout last term and looks set to continue given Carrick’s preference for stability. Heaven’s selection over Yoro during pre-season caught many off guard, and the Arsenal academy graduate appears poised to start alongside Maguire and Shaw.
The clubs last met in 2017, sharing a goalless draw in the league at Old Trafford. United’s previous visit to the MKM Stadium came in January that year for a League Cup tie, where Huddlestone struck for the hosts before United progressed 3-2 on aggregate.
Statistical projections from Opta suggest United’s most probable position is second, though third or fourth remain equally plausible outcomes. Achieving a top-four finish upon returning to European competition would represent solid progress.
United should possess sufficient quality to claim maximum points and begin positively. Mazraoui featured at right-back against Milan last week, though Dalot merits a recall. Yoro warrants inclusion at centre-back alongside the 33-year-old Maguire, despite Carrick’s apparent preference for Heaven alongside the veteran. Yoro enters his third season at Old Trafford and requires regular starts to fulfil his apparent potential.
The midfield selection appears straightforward given Mount’s injury concern and Mainoo’s minimal pre-season involvement. Amad, Mbeumo and Dorgu compose the forward line, with their speed likely to trouble Hull’s defence.
Last term’s summer signings Sesko and Mbeumo topped the scoring charts with 11 goals each. Sesko has rejoined full training but may have to wait for his opportunity. Mbeumo has led the line in his team-mate’s absence and looks set to start today.
Carrick indicated Sesko could be involved in the squad today. Mount’s participation remains unclear while De Ligt misses out. Sesko failed to make any pre-season appearances as he recovered from a shin injury but has now returned to full training.
UK viewers can watch the match on TNT Sports 1 and Ultimate, with additional streaming available on HBO Max. Alternatively, live updates and commentary will be provided.
The visitors from Manchester enter as strong favourites but have been cautioned against complacency. Hull secured their promotion against the odds, clinching a play-off spot on the season’s final day before earning promotion.
United have assembled a strong squad, with new signings potentially making their competitive bows. Rashford will attract considerable attention.
The match is now underway at the MKM Stadium.