Joshua Zirkzee made an impressive debut for Manchester United, scoring the only goal of the match in the 87th minute to give his team a 1-0 win over Fulham in the Premier League season opener.

The Dutch striker, who recently transferred from Bologna, came off the bench to net the decisive goal, finishing a cross from fellow substitute Alejandro Garnacho at Old Trafford.

“To win here in my first home game, and to grab a goal, it couldn’t be better,” Zirkzee said.

United struggled to create clear chances throughout the game, with midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount missing several opportunities. Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno played a crucial role in keeping the game scoreless until Zirkzee’s late intervention with several key saves.

New signings Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt also made their first appearances for United, with Mazraoui performing strongly at right back and De Ligt joining later in the game. 

Manager Erik ten Hag acknowledged the team’s need for improvement despite the win, stating, “It’s just the first game, but it’s good to strengthen the belief and confidence in the team.”

Manchester United’s victory marks a positive start to the season, as the team aims to return to its former glory. On Saturday (August 17, 2024), there are six more games in the league’s first round, including Liverpool playing against promoted Ipswich, Arsenal hosting Wolverhampton, and Manchester City beginning their title defense at Chelsea on Sunday (August 18, 2024).