Manchester United suffered a 2-0 defeat to Hull City in their first Premier League fixture of the campaign at the MKM Stadium, with the visitors making a disastrous beginning to their season-long ambitions.
The Red Devils entered the match as strong favourites but found themselves two goals down by the interval, with Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy finding the net for the newly-promoted hosts. Despite Michael Carrick’s tactical adjustments during the break, including introducing Marcus Rashford for his first appearance of the afternoon, United were unable to mount any meaningful response as they slumped to an opening-day defeat.
Here is how the United squad performed:
Senne Lammens
Produced several important stops during the opening period, notably denying a well-struck header from Oli McBurnie, but was helpless for both Hull’s goals. The Belgian goalkeeper’s performance highlighted the struggles of his outfield colleagues, making him United’s standout performer. 6
Noussair Mazraoui
Dealt with a dangerous delivery early on to avert the threat, yet he was guilty of losing the ball on multiple occasions and appeared shaky in defensive situations. Carrick may consider recalling Diogo Dalot for the next fixture. 3
Harry Maguire
Appeared to be the only centre-back capable of handling Hull’s direct approach and set-piece delivery at stages. The England international attempted to spark a revival after the restart by pushing forward in search of an equaliser. 4
Ayden Heaven
Exchanged words with McBurnie as the teams departed for the dressing rooms, seemingly disputing whether he had been fouled in the build-up to Hull’s opener. He was ultimately overpowered in the challenge and ought to have responded more effectively. 3
Luke Shaw
While solid enough in his defensive duties, the left-back failed to provide any threat going forward. If he lacks the dynamism to contribute to attacks against a side like Hull, he will face considerably greater difficulties against stronger opposition throughout the campaign. 4
Andrey Santos
Began the match brightly, requesting the ball from colleagues and looking eager to make an impression, though he committed several unnecessary fouls and was careless on a handful of occasions. Not the impressive introduction he would have been hoping for at Old Trafford. 3
Youri Tielemans
Should prove to be a shrewd acquisition, yet he failed to demonstrate his true capabilities against Hull, much like his fellow United players. He appeared sluggish and managed fewer progressive passes than anticipated. 3
Bruno Fernandes
Chosen to take a weak effort from distance midway through the second half, reflecting United’s lack of attacking ideas. The midfielder appeared fatigued during the World Cup and his display at the MKM Stadium suggests he may experience another sluggish start to the season. 3
Bryan Mbeumo
Offered the most attacking intent from the forward line during the first half, though that distinction carries limited praise given the overall display. He saw less of the ball after Rashford’s introduction. 5
Matheus Cunha
Looked ill at ease occupying the central striking position, and United will be counting on Benjamin Sesko to find his rhythm swiftly. 3
Patrick Dorgu
Had already struck three efforts on goal by the break, a higher tally than any teammate, though the quality of those attempts was lacking. The winger was predictably withdrawn at half-time in favour of Rashford. 3
Substitutes
Marcus Rashford
His initial contribution was a headed clearance in his own penalty area, before bursting down the left flank on his second involvement to earn a free-kick. The forward was warmly applauded by the travelling supporters as he prepared to enter the pitch. 5
Kobbie Mainoo
Managed to retain possession throughout his time on the field, representing a step in the right direction. 5
Benjamin Sesko
Served as an outlet in attack, though his colleagues failed to construct any meaningful opportunities for him. 5
Diogo Dalot
Delivered a more convincing performance than the player he replaced. 5
Shea Lacey
Remained peripheral to the action. 5