Newly promoted Hull City stunned Manchester United on Saturday, defeating the Red Devils 2–0 at the MKM Stadium to make a dream return to the Premier League.
The Tigers, back in England’s top flight after a nine-year absence, produced a disciplined and energetic display to secure their first-ever Premier League victory over Manchester United.
Manchester United arrived with plenty of optimism after finishing third in the 2025/26 Premier League season under manager Michael Carrick and securing Champions League football. However, their hopes of making a strong start to the new campaign were quickly shattered by a determined Hull side.
Hull took the lead in the 17th minute through Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi, who reacted quickest to fire home after goalkeeper Senne Lammens had initially kept out Oli McBurnie’s effort from a corner.
The home side continued to trouble United, particularly from set pieces, and doubled their advantage before half-time.
Nobel Mendy made it 2–0 in the 38th minute, powering a header past Lammens from Regan Slater’s free-kick to send the home supporters into wild celebrations.
United attempted to respond after the interval, with Carrick introducing Marcus Rashford at half-time for his first competitive appearance for the club in 618 days. However, the England forward could not inspire a comeback.
Manchester United enjoyed 71.6 per cent possession and registered 21 attempts, but Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis stood firm when called upon. Bryan Mbeumo came closest to pulling one back, only for his effort to be saved.
Hull, meanwhile, remained compact and dangerous on the counter, protecting their two-goal advantage until the final whistle.
The result represents a historic achievement for manager Sergej Jakirovic and his players. Hull had never previously beaten Manchester United in the Premier League, while the victory ended an 11-game winless run against the Red Devils.
For United, the defeat is an early warning for Carrick, whose side struggled to break down Hull’s defensive structure and were punished for poor defending at set pieces.
It was also a particularly unwanted piece of history for Manchester United, who became the first team in their Premier League history to lose their opening-day fixture against a newly promoted side.
Hull City, on the other hand, could hardly have wished for a better return to the Premier League. The Tigers have immediately announced themselves as a team capable of causing problems for the division’s bigger clubs.
Final Score: Hull City 2–0 Manchester United
Goals: Semi Ajayi 17’, Nobel Mendy 38’.
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