Man United 1-0 Fulham - Premier League RECAP: All the reaction as debutant Joshua Zirkzee comes off the bench to fire the Red Devils to victory with a dramatic goal at Old Trafford

So, there we go.

Manchester United have gotten off to the perfect start as they take home the first win of the Premier League season.

They left it late, with new signing Joshua Zirkzee popping up three minutes from time to score on his debut.

Fulham gave it a good crack at Old Trafford and may feel hard done by, but in the end, they leave Manchester with nothing to their name.

It was a strong start to the first weekend of Premier League action, and there is a lot more still to come.

It's time for me to head off now, but I will see you all bright and early tomorrow for lunchtime action at Portman Road.

Adios!

We know Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville adore their clubs.

So it will come as no surprise that Carragher has backed Liverpool to finish above Man United, and Neville the opposite.

Who do you think will finish above the other, United or the Reds?

I'm going for Liverpool third and the Red Devils fifth.

Interesting...

We made a lot about Jadon Sancho not being selected in Manchester United's squad tonight, and now we sort of know why.

Well, the reason I have said 'sort of' is due to the fact that Erik ten Hag has said Sancho 'could have played'.

That's despite the fact that seconds earlier he suggested that Sancho had an ear infection this week.

I think he just didn't fancy him, don't you?

Jamie Carragher, former Liverpool defender, on Sky Sports:

No team are going to be 100% in the first game. Every manager would say the same and you are trying to integrate new players, so everyone is in that situation.

We know the stakes are high for Erik ten Hag this season, the way he was treated last season on how we didn't know he was going to be in the job - it is a huge result for Man United tonight.

Alejandro Garnacho really is coming of age, isn't he?

He has started off this season with a goal in the Community Shield and an assist tonight in the Premier League curtain raiser.

It's easy to forget that he is just 20 years old, it feels like he has been lighting up Old Trafford for years.

He may not have started tonight, but I doubt he will be kept out of the side long after that cameo.

Sadly, though, I can't gloss over that terrible miss at the end. It was an open goal, I'm still stunned he didn't score.

The miss aside, the Argentine is becoming a real star.

Lisandro Martinez, Manchester United defender, spekaing to Sky Sports:

It is really important to get a clean sheet. We have to improve a lot. It is difficult to play for this big club but we love that. We have to play in a positive way. There was a good connection with the team, fans, subs. I haven’t played many games at left back but if the team needs me there I will give everything. Everyone is ready to play for every position.

I sent Traore to the gym. It is really difficult to play against his opponent, I learned from the first one. We are ready for everything, it is part of our job, if you have excuses, we are not ready for this club. I always believed in myself and strength. I know I am not really tall but I will show with my personality.

It is a different league and system, in Ajax we controlled more of the game, here we are trying, we showed good moments, but it is really different, everyone is quick, strong, good with the ball. When you know how the team wants to play it is better, the new signings knew from day one.

Oh yes, the Sofascore stats are back!

And they show us that we just watched a fairly entertaining game.

24 shots in total, seven on target, 22 fouls, and five yellow cards. I think that was a fairly decent 90 minutes.

Manchester United just shaded it in my opinion, and this graphic backs that theory up (thanks guys).

The only stat that truly matters, though, is the scoreline and that is also in favour of United.

Not a bad way to start the new season.

Marco Silva is not used to this feeling on the opening day...

The Fulham boss has just tasted defeat in the first fixture of a season for the first time since 2012.

It ends a nine-match unbeaten run that spans six clubs, including Everton and Watford.

Things always have to come to an end.

Marco Silva, Fulham manager, speaking to Sky Sports:

It is really tough for us to lose this game the way we lost. The game had different moments, we started really well, I think the first two dangerous moments were from ourselves. The first one we should have scored, a really dangerous attack from us. After 20 minutes good reaction from Man United. We adjusted at half-time and the second half was much better in my opinion. We had our chances. When you play against Manchester United...there were moments and we had to punish them.

We had so many moments and we were punished at the end of the game. It was a crazy game and we did not play our own game. It was an emotional game, we tried to rush many, many times. We did not get the points I thought we deserved. Of course, when you have two against one you should at least finalise the action and put your teammates in the right action. But it was not just that one, we had other really good moments and should have scored.

We have to keep the emotional control in these types of games. We know they are strong and want to play this type of game. It's always their strength when the game is broken and the space is there. We should have kept the balance and emotional control. But it was a good answer from the team overall, we just didn't get the points I think we should have. It was a tough summer when you lose five players - four of them starting players. But I knew the players were good enough to play in this way.

Jim, Manchester: Seems to be a player in there with Zirkzee, every touch he had was quality. I feel like he’s gonna be a false 9/Berbatov type player which is what we’ve been crying out for. Hopefully, he can connect well with our wingers too.

Is that you, Mr Radcliffe?

The statistics just keep on coming!

Joshua Zirkzee's late winner tonight makes him the 22nd player to score in their first-ever Premier League appearance for Manchester United.

Only Chelsea with 27 players and Aston Villa with 26, have more debutant scorers in the competition's history.

I mean, fair play.

Poor old Fulham, they must hate facing Dutch strikers.

Joshua Zirkzee is not the first Dutch forward to put the Cottagers to the sword on his debut.

He follows in the footsteps of both Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie.

Not bad company, if you ask me.

It was debuts galore at Old Trafford tonight.

Joshua Zirkzee, Noussair Mazraoui, and Matthijs de Ligt all got their first minutes in a Manchester United shirt.

That's the first time United have handed three players or more players their Premier League debut since May 2017 against Crystal Palace.

Meanwhile, Emile Smith-Rowe made his first competitive start for Fulham this evening.

With two weeks in the window still to go, there are still time for some more...

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager, speaking to Sky Sports:

Subs are always very important and it is good to see him come on and score the winner, it is very good for the team process. It is very good, they have to be ready. Fulham are good on the ball but we pressed very well, we kept them under pressure and they had a lot of trouble and we created a lot of chances. The only criticism is we should have scored earlier, kill.

A clean sheet is very important. Two seasons ago we had the most in the league and I know when we have our consistent back four we will defend properly. It is so important to have a high line, if you don’t have a consistent back four then the gaps will come.

Scoring for a striker is important. He should be there to finish and kill but he has more qualities and he has to get the right balance. He has to arrive in the box but we want him to link up also. I have seen many places where we have to improve. I see some nice debuts. The win is very important, but I’m very happy no injuries today.

Manchester United just love the opening day.

Tonight's win was the 22nd time they have reigned supreme in their Premier League opener.

The next best is Chelsea with 20, so the record is unassailable, for this season at least.

Start as they mean to go on.

Noussair Mazraoui’s statistics for his Manchester United debut:

• 92% pass accuracy
• Five ball recoveries
• Six duels won
• Three interceptions
• Two clearances
• Two tackles won

Not a bad first match, eh?

Joshua Zirkzee, Manchester United goalscorer, speaking to Sky Sports:

To win here in my first home game and to grab a goal, it couldn't be better. I've been told [scoring at the Stretford End] is one of the best feelings at Man Utd. I'm so thankful and blessed I could experience it in my first game. It's an amazing feeling.

At the end of the day, we got the win, that's all we wanted. I can't really explain the feeling, it's just very nice. I feel very warm here. It's a great team. We want to achieve something great. It's been amazing, it's been a dream actually.

The manager told me to bring energy and help the team as much as possible, just that. Manchester United is a huge club. You should always strive for the best. That includes day-by-day giving 100%, that's the plan. It's all good vibes."

Digging for gold, Issa?

In all seriousness (doing a Frank Lampard here), Marco Silva will be gutted after that result.

His Fulham side were putting on the pressure late on and looked the more likely side to score.

But instead, they leave Old Trafford with nothing.

Dutchman's love a debut goal...

Joshua Zirkzee is the 15th Dutch player to net on his Premier League debut.

Another of those 15 is Manchester United coach Ruud van Nistelrooy, I'm sure he is very proud.

If Zirkzee is anything like his coach in front of goal, he is going to be one scary prospect for the league.

Now if you haven't seen the winner, here is your chance.

Goalscorers do everything they can to get in the right area to score goals, and that's exactly what Joshua Zirkzee did here.

A fizzing cross and all it needed was a touch. The Dutchman was there to provide it.

Watch, and enjoy, United fans.

Debuts don't get much better than that.

Scoring the winner off the bench at the Stretford End in your first match, not bad.

It wasn't the finest of goals, but it's a massive one. United didn't always find those winners last year.

Both Zirkzee and United, are off to the perfect start.

Manchester United start the season with three points.

Summer signing Joshua Zirkzee is the hero as his late goal off the bench gets his new side off to a winning start.

It looked destined to end a stalemate with just four minutes to go as Fulham started to take control.

But this fixture always has a late surprise for us, and it delivered yet again.

How has Alejandro Garnacho missed that???

Calvin Bassey makes a mess of it at the back and Marcus Rashford is through.

The winger slides the ball across to Garnacho who has an open goal at his mercy.

Somehow, he scuffs it wide. I can't believe it.

Marco Silva is having one last punt.

Jay Stansfield and Harrison Reed are both on as they hunt for a late equaliser.

It's not over just yet...

There will be four minutes of stoppage time at Old Trafford.

Will there be more late drama?

I was literally typing that this match always brings late drama as that goal went in.

It's not over until it's over, and Joshua Zirkzee has just delivered when it matters most.

Joshua Zirkzee has surely won it on his debut!

The summer signing gets on the end of Alejandro Garnacho's low cross to volley home.

Old Trafford goes berserk and Zirkzee runs off in celebration after scoring with one of his first touches.

What a way to start your United career!

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

I don't think Marco Silva should have taken Adama Traore off. He has asked questions of United all night but just lacked that end product. Always an interesting watch

Erik ten Hag has rolled the dice for the final time.

Scott McTominay, who scored plenty of last-minute winners last season, is on in place of Kobbie Mainoo.

The Fulham fans chant 'He wants to play for Fulham'...

Nathan Salt, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

De Ligt at left back. Erm...

Erm, indeed...

It's time for another Man United debutant.

Matthijs de Ligt is on in place of his former Bayern Munich team-mate Noussair Mazrapoui, who is applauded off. A strong debut.

Jonny Evans also comes on to replace a limping Harry Maguire.

That means De Ligt is now left-back...

The Old Trafford crowd moans and groans.

Why, you ask?

Because Bruno Fernandes fires a tame shot straight into the gloves of Bernd Lewno.

Joshua Zirkzee produces a lovely little run to set up the chance, though.

Marco Silva is making some very attacking changes.

Harry Wilson and Raul Jiminez have been called into action to replace Adama Traore and Rodrigo Muniz.

Can they contribute to a late goal?

Fulham are all over Manchester United.

They fly forward again and this time Alex Iwobi fies a lovely ball into Rodrigo Muniz's feet in the area.

the striker tries to turn but Harry Maguire does really well to hold him off before Andre Onana clears.

It's squeaky bum time for United now.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

It's getting to that stage now where the United fans are getting restless but it's not all one-way traffic. Fulham look dangerous in the United half and have been on the front foot since the break. This game is well in the balance.

Massive clearance from Lisandro Martinez!

Fulham have three on two, they are away, and Tom Cairney slides Andreas Pereira in on the right-hand side of the area.

He slides a dangerous ball across the six-yard box which Martinez is forced to smash behind.

Rob Jones has enjoyed getting his cards out tonight.

This time he shows Tom Cairney a yellow card for taking out Alejandro Garnacho.

I mean, it's a definite booking.

You can feel the nerves from the Old Trafford crowd.

As the minutes tick, the anxiety rises. Fulham are starting to have a go and the Manchester United fans don't like it.

Could be a long last 18 minutes if they are this nervous.

Erm... This is a strange one.

Andreas Pereira has just been booked for kicking the ball in anger straight at Lisandro Martinez.

I mean, I think he was just trying to take a quick free-kick, but Rob Jones didn't like it.

Gary Neville, Former Manchester United defender, on Sky Sports:

What a counter-attacking opportunity that was - you don't expect that from Andreas Pereira.

Oh dear, Andreas Pereira.

The former Man United man is through and only has Harry Maguire to beat with Alex Iwobi by his side.

He just has to slide Iwobi through but he fires the ball straight at Maguire. A terrible pass.

A real waste.

Emile Smith-Rowe's Fulham debut has come to an end.

He is replaced by one of the side's longest-serving players, and the club captain, Tom Cairney.

Rodrigo Muniz displays his acrobatic skills again.

He scored some belters last year for Fulham and he has just tried to net another.

The striker has a crack with an overhead kick which takes a lopping deflection off Kobbie Mainoo.

Andre Onana deals with it, though.

Erik ten Hag has decided to switch things up.

Joshua Zirkzee is coming on for his Manchester United debut to replace Mason Mount, and he gets a monster cheer.

Alejandro Garnacho is also on, he comes on for Amad Diallo on the right.

Happy, Nathan? (See earlier post).

Ooft, Koobie Mainoo comes within a whisker.

Mason Mount provides a lovely ball for Mainoo to run onto. The midfielder does just that and pulls the trigger, but the ball drifts narrowly wide.

For a slight second, I thought it was heading for the corner.

Nathan Salt, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

This game is crying out for Alejandro Garnacho. He's the one with magic in his boots. Warming up vigorously but the call from the bench hasn't come yet

Bernd Leno to the rescue, yet again!

This time he gets low to deny Mason mount at point-blank range after a marauding run from Marcus Rashford in the build-up.

Mount throws his hands to his head, he can't believe it. Neither can I.

The only way to stop Adama Traore is to take him out.

The Fulham winger gets going on the counter and Marcus Rashford just decides to clip his heels as he approaches the area.

Probably the safe option, from Marcus.

Manchester United are looking a little nervy.

Andreas Pereira curls in a lovely delivery for Kenny Tete to attack, which he does.

The defenders flick on looks to cause United some trouble as it heads toward goal, but they get it clear.

Fulham are on top.

That's what Emile Smith-Rowe is all about.

The ball breaks to him and he gets past a couple of Manchester United players on the edge of the area, but he takes one touch too many.

A nifty little run, but it could have amounted to much more.

And we're off and running again.

Manchester United get the ball rolling as darkness swallows up Old Trafford.

Will we get some goals in this second half? I hope we do.

Anonymous: The word is Tom Daley is now Utd's new diving coach...

He's doing a tremendous job so far, it seems.

These two sides normally serve up goals, but they haven't so far today.

There has not been a goalless draw in this fixture for over 100 years - that's a very long time, isn't it?

Well, we are just 45 minutes from one unless these two sides buck up their ideas.

I love this from the Premier League.

There has always been a lot of confusion with VAR decisions, but this X account ought to help.

They didn't really need to explain why Harry Maguire was booked, but I guess they thought it was funny.

Tom Daley may be retired Harry, but you aren't taking his place.

Bernd Leno will be a relieved man in that dressing room.

He very almost cost Fulham a goal in that first half as he was closed down by Marcus Rashford, but he more than made up for it with a save.

Twice Bruno Fernandes looked to get the better of him, twice the German keeper came up with a big save.

He is the only reason Fulham are not behind.

The first half of Premier League football this season has come to an end.

Fulham shaded the first 15 minutes with some excellent football, but then Man United came to life.

Bruno Fernandes had two big chances to score but Bernd Leno foiled him on both occasions.

A decent first half, in my humble opinion...

They did say they would not add much stoppage time this year.

That's obviously the case as they have added just one minute today.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, at Old Trafford:

Casemiro looks leaner and lighter than last season and that certainly won’t harm him. He’s had a very good fifteen minutes here and his pass through for the second Bruno Fernandes chance was superb. Number nine, false nine or no nine, if midfield players create chances like that then teams will score goals.

Casemiro is just desperate to get on the scoresheet.

He has his fifth shot of this match, this time it's a looping volley that flies over the bar.

To be fair to him, the ball did fall very invitingly.

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear...

Harry Maguire is booked for diving, and he will not want to watch this back.

He falls to the ground in the penalty area and throws his hands up to the sky, but Emile Smith-Rowe is nowhere near him.

He was falling before the boot even came up!

Casemiro must have a magnet on his head, he keeps getting his noggin to the ball.

This time Amad Diallo curls a lovely corner to the back post where the Brazilian is waiting, and he heads the ball into the ground and wide.

That's three and counting.

Bernd Leno comes up trumps for Fulham.

Man United knit together a stunning move and it nearly pays off.

Kobbie Mainoo finds Casemiro who threads the ball through to Bruno Fernandes in the box.

You just expect the United captain to slide the ball him but he fires it straight at Leno from close range.

The best chance of the match.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, at Old Trafford:

United have improved in the last ten minutes or so. They are pressing Fulham as a unit now and as such as starting to turn the ball over in good areas. Young Amad carries the home team’s greatest threat when in possession.

Man United have certainly come to life now, it's all them.

They come forward again and Diogo Dalot spots Bruno Fernandes lurking at the back post.

He floats the ball in his direction but just overcooks it and it flies over his head.

Bernd Leno, you are one lucky boy...

The Fulham keeper dilly-dallies pon the ball and gives it away to send Man United on the attack.

The ball ends up at the feet of Bruno Fernandes who only has Leno to beat in the area, but he can't manage it and Leno makes up for his mistake.

He can breathe a sigh of relief.

That's why you don't listen to the fans.

Old Trafford screams cries of 'shoooot' as the ball rolls into the path of Casemiro just outside the area.

The Brazilian obliges, but he blasts the ball closer to the roof of the stadium than the goal.

We have our first booking of the new season, and it goes to Fulham's Calvin Bassey.

The defender flies in on Mason Mount, wiping him out from behind with a nasty challenge.

A yellow card all day long.

Does Casemiro know the offside rule?

He drifts the wrong side of Fulham's line again from a free-kick, meaning his headed effort would have amounted to nothing whatever the outcome.

De ja vu from the last set-piece.

Marco Silva may be shouting on that touchline, but he will be happy with his side's start here.

Fulham have been the better side, they look really calm on the ball and have not been threatened at the other end.

Bruno Fernandes is not a happy bunny...

He has a go at his team-mates for not getting up the pitch after he is sent through and has no one to pass to.

Instead, he goes for goal from a tight angle and can only find the side netting.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, at Old Trafford:

United looking very much like the team of last season – so far at least. Fulham have had the possession, shown the identifiable shape and pattern and as a result, have had the better chances. United once again playing as a counter-attacking team – but it’s early days

Man United fans love that from Lisandro Martinez.

He was on toast earlier after Adama Traore raced past him, but this time the winger can't repeat the trick.

The centre-back bides his time before stepping across to bundle Traore out of the way. The United fans then roar with pride.

This game is starting to heat up now.

Manchester United are finally putting their hand to the pump and getting forward.

They win a free-kick which is delivered by Bruno Fernandes, and lands in the path of Casemiro.

The Brazilian gets his head to it, but he is offside.

What a hit that is from Kenny Tete!

Fulham break forward and the defender just decides to have a crack from distance, and what a crack it is.

The strike is heading for the top corner but Andre Onana manages to scramble across to tip it over.

that would have been some goal.

Manchester United fans scream for a penalty, but they don't get their wish.

Amad Diallo bursts into the box before going down under pressure, and he throws his hands to the air.

Never a penalty.

Adama Traore looks really bright here.

After showing his dribbling skills, he now tries to have a crack at goal.

In true Traore fashion, his effort isn't the best. He can't get it on target.

Nathan Salt, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

Fulham have started well here with Andreas Pereira at the heart of a lot that is good. One of the big concerns from Wembley was United's ability to defend crosses into the box. So far Fulham haven't been able to put that to the test but it's been an absorbing start. Adama Traore is still rapid, obviously

That is why Man United brought Noussair Mazraoui!

Adama Traore gets on his bike and burns past Lisandro Martinez before driving into the area.

He pulls the ball back for Alex Iwobi who is waiting to strike, but Mazraoui is there to deny him.

That was far too easy for Fulham.

Fulham are starting to enjoy the lion's share of possession.

They are knocking about with relative ease due to the fact that Man United aren't really pressing.

Andres Pereira then wins a free-kick just outside the area after being fouled by Kobbie Mainoo, but the resulting set-piece is poor.

It seems that Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes are trading positions with regularity already.

both have been the highest up the pitch already, some very new roles for them.

It took less than 30 seconds for the first offside of the season.

Old Trafford rise to their feet as they think Marcus Rashford is through, but he is miles off.

I reckon Darwin Nunez could beat that time if he starts for Liverpool tomorrow. The king of offsides.

The Premier League is a go!

Fulham get the new league season underway to a massive roar at Old Trafford.

Now for nine months of drama, starting with this 90 minutes.

Old Trafford is a cauldron of noise, right now.

Both teams arise from a refurbished tunnel, after a few grunts and fist bumps, to a huge cheer.

The sun is shining in Manchester on a lovely August day, a perfect day for it.

We are now just moments away from what we have all been waiting for.

Good spot, Nathan.

Mail Sport's Manchester United correspondent has just had a sneaky peak of Avram Glazer.

The Manchester United co-owner has decided to show face for the opening game of the season.

Oooh, I like this one.

Nike don't always get it right with the design of the Premier League football, but they have this time.

It doesn't really matter, though. You can hardly see the details on it while the game is ongoing anyway.

Still cool, I think.

Marco Silva, Fulham boss, speaking to Sky Sports:

It is always possible to improve. Of course, we have lost four to five key players. We made three signings and we need to make more signings to have an impact in the team.

Some very good games in the pre-season, we need some new signings to have an impact - a clear ambition is to improve what we did in the last few seasons. We are going to sign one more player for that position (midfield). One player for our attacking line has to come.

OK, now I am getting very excited.

The wait for the start of the 2024-25 season is almost over, we are just 15 minutes away from kick-off.

Both teams have gone through the motions of their warm-up - they don't exactly look happy to be there.

I mean, they are probably just very nervous.

If this was cricket, Kenny Tete would be raising his bat.

The Fulham full-back is set for his 100th appearance for the west London side this evening.

Can he mark it with a clean sheet?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, at Old Trafford:

A little moan from me, by the way. The top flight football season should start on a Saturday afternoon. The end.

Roy Keane, former Man United captain, speaking about Emile Smith-Rowe on Sky Sports:

I can see why they are excited. He is a good signing, lost his way last year or two. But he was outstanding, a goal threat and looks like a good signing on paper. He seems like a good fit for the player and club. Can he play week in, week out? It is a fitness doubt.

It feels like a new beginning in football for Emile Smith-Rowe, doesn't it?

Coming through at Arsenal, Smith-Rowe showed his excellence on the ball and ability to drive at defences.

Injuries, blended with inconsistency, meant that Smith-Rowe lost his place in the Gunners side after breaking through as a youngster.

It felt like he had to move elsewhere, and he has done. Tonight is a chance to show he is still a top footballer.

I know Fulham fans are very excited about him...

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, at Old Trafford:

So another season of Snakes and Ladders begins at Manchester United. A look at tonight’s team tells me there are still holes to be filled. On the flip side, there are new starts for Rashford, Mount, and indeed Erik ten Hag. They should win tonight and my tip is a rather conservative and sensible 2-0.

Going by the comments section, I believe it is.

Something just feels different around Manchester United this summer. The way they played in pre-season certainly has fans excited.

The feel-good factor comes from bodies being brought through the door, as well as the changes upstairs.

When there is optimism around the club, that usually leads to results. They didn't have that buzz before and look what happened.

Will that optimism rise following this evening?

Peter, Nigeria: United will win and they will not even struggle to do it.

Anonymous: Final Score: Manchester United 4-1 Fulham.

Surely, it won't be that easy.

The chants are in full flow.

As kick-off edges closer, and closer, fans are flocking in their numbers upon OIld Trafford.

The noise is starting to ramp up with it too, plenty of songs are being sung.

After hearing them, I'm not sure they would be as successful choir...

You knew this question was coming...

I want to hear from all of you before we see anything from Manchester United and Fulham tonight.

United's squad has been on the operating table this summer, now it's nearly time to see if they are any better.

I put them fifth in my Premier League predictions, I just don't think they are strong enough to overhaul Liverpool and Tottenham.

What do all of you think?

Jamie Carragher, former Liverpool defender, on Sky Sports:

Of course, they had a lot of injuries last season. You look at the signings, you think they've been backed. He's spent a lot of money, Ten Hag. This is his team now, there are even five signings from Ajax now!

You go back to what happened last season, there were mitigating circumstances with the injuries. But when there are injuries, you still see a style of play. We can't see Fulham walking through the Man Utd midfield again...

New signing Noussair Mazraoui is being thrown straight into the deep end tonight as he starts in the backline.

Erik ten Hag was his boss at Ajax where they enjoyed a lot of success together, so he knows him very well.

So what will the Morocco international bring to United?

Well, Ten Hag explained in his press conference yesterday. Go have a watch, it's fascinating.

It's a big night for Mason Mount.

I think even he would admit that it was a poor first season for him in red last year - that's an understatement.

Injuries hampered him and even when he did play he struggled to make an impact. He rarely started games.

Over the summer he wiped the slate clean and now he has got his chance in the Premier League.

He will be hoping this is the real start to his life in Manchester.

Andreas Pereira, Fulham midfielder, speaking to Sky Sports:

We are delighted to be here and we want to start the season. It will be a good game for us as we did a good pre-season. We cannot wait to start the season here - last time we won here so we know we can do it.

We are very excited and everyone is pumped to start the season - I am happy to play the first game here as it's a special place for me.

Oh, it must feel so good to be back.

These fans will have been itching to get back inside Old Trafford as soon as last season ended. They must feel the pain.

The fish and chip shops are full and flags are plenty.

Is this a sign of what's to come?

Jadon Sancho has had a rocky relationship with Manchester United during his time there (that's putting it lightly).

But after an impressive loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, he got several chances to impress in pre-season.

Obviously, Erik ten Hag didn't like what he saw...

Sancho is not even on the bench for United today - I think that's pretty telling.

What have you got for us, Amad Diallo?

I watched a lot of Manchester United pre-season, in fact, I watched every single minute of it - covering them.

And the player that impressed me most was Diallo, he was superb.

Every time he took to the pitch he dazzled on the right-hand side, bamboozling defences.

His pace, his dribbling, and his knack of getting past players with ease were all on display.

He has his chance, now he has to take it.

Now that is a lot of years...

Bearing in mind that I was born in 2000 (cue the shocked faces), the fact that Manchester United have been in the top flight for 100 seasons is simply crazy.

They've had a pretty good stint in it, haven't they?

I mean, they have won the title in a fifth of the campaigns they have competed in.

Gary Neville, former Manchester United defender, on Sky Sports:

I feel more optimistic because of the changes at the top and the negligence has been disrupted. They have spent on the training ground but got some serious football in who are not going to make the same basic mistakes, the profile of player that has been signed is very different.

I bet you are saying: 'This feels early'.

You're right, it is early. That's because this season teams will be announced 75 minutes before kick-off in the Premier League, rather than an hour.

So, you only have to wait a few more minutes to find out which stars will open the Premier League season.

Very exciting.

Fans of the club will certainly hope so.

I watched the Community Shield last week and although Manchester United lost to Manchester City in the end, they were the better side.

Just like back in May, United had less of the ball, but they transitioned into attack effectively and caused the Champions major problems.

Last season they conceded so many big chances, their defence was ripped apart over and over again. That's something they need to change.

Going by the performance last week at Wembley, plus their new signings, it's an area they have improved.

It was one game, though, so maybe tonight they will be back to their old tricks again.

Or maybe Erik ten Hag finally has them ticking in time?

Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot, speaking to Sky Sports:

Yes, we are ready. [Erik ten Hag was] taken out of context. What he means by this is we are not at the same stage pre-season-wise as some players come back a little later. We are really excited to come back to Old Trafford - I am sure we will be 100%.

The expectations are the same every time you start a new season with this club. The expectations are always really high. There is a different energy coming into this season, a few changes in the structure. Everything looks good, but ultimately what matters is what we do on the pitch.

Don't worry, United fans. I wasn't going to only go in on you.

While there are omens that point in the direction of a Fulham win tonight, there are also some that don't.

Put it this way, Man United usually love playing Fulham.

They have lost just four of their last 34 Premier League fixtures with them, winning 24 of those.

I mean, if that ain't a good omen, I don't know what is.

Once again, Manchester United fans will not like this post...

This fixture has served up some crackers the last few years, and they seemingly nearly always go the way of the away team.

The visitors have won three of the past four Premier League meetings between United and Fulham.

There always seems to be late drama too as all three have been decided by a 90th-minute winning goal.

If we get more of that drama tonight then we are in for a treat.

Manchester United fans, you may want to scroll past this post.

Fulham's history at Old Trafford is pretty wretched, going into last season they hadn't won there in 21 years.

But with one superb display, that all changed.

After Harry Maguire equalised for United to make it 1-1 with just one minute of normal time remaining, the Cottagers' dreams looked like they had been shattered.

Up step, Alex Iwobi.

In the 97th minute, the Fulham man found the bottom corner with a fine strike after a superb run from Adama Traore. The away end went berserk.

I remember exactly where I was when that goal went in... right where I am now - in the office.

Can the west London side repeat the trick tonight?

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United boss, in his programme notes:

Everything we saw at Wembley in May - togetherness, belief and determination - is what we want to see in every game this season. We want to establish ourselves as the benchmark in English football.

I spot a new signing...

Manchester United have arrived at Old Trafford early for their Premier League opener, and they look in high spirits.

I spotted a particular star in the arrival pictures as soon as they came in, and that player is new signing, Noussair Mazraoui.

I wonder how he is feeling, I mean, he looks very focused.

Marco Silva, Fulham boss, speaking on Thursday:

There have been fine margins. The reality is we have been a match for them. I'm excited to be at Old Trafford and to start there - the environment is going to be very good. They will want to start on the front foot - but they know what we are capable of.

[We have been] one of the only teams that is going to compete in the Premier League that has lost four senior players. We have to deal with it. We have a lot of work to do in the next two and a half weeks in the market because we need it. Now we have to rebuild again like we did last season.

At this stage of the season, I would like to have all the squad we need and have them prepared. It is always same story. It is what it is. We have been working hard. We're not 100% yet, but we are going to be ready for the game.

Nathan Salt, Mail Sport, at Old Trafford:

Hello from Old Trafford. First thing to note is that Manchester has been buzzing all afternoon with fans itching for this one to start. All four Man United summer signings - Matthjis de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee - are going to be introduced to the crowd this evening - even if Yoro is still on crutches after his pre-season injury.

I was at Erik ten Hag’s press conference yesterday and he was chipper and relaxed. Speaking to people at the club they’ve noticed a shift in that sense in Ten Hag this summer, he’s been more laid back, a tad more gentile, and he will hope that can rub off on his players.

Make no mistake that this is a huge game for him and United. This sets the tone of the new season and losing would only put his future into sharp focus immediately. Win tonight and the next eight days before Brighton away can be enjoyable. Lose and it’s a long time to be in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. I’m really excited to see this one play out.

With a new season comes new signings.

Manchester United are one of the teams who have poured money into freshen up ahead of this season.

I mean, let's be honest, if they hadn't it would have been very silly of them.

Erik ten Hag has brought in four new bodies through the door, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Joshua Zirkzee, and Leny Yoro.

Will any of them feature tonight?

Well, we know that Yoro won't as he has been sidelined with a metatarsal problem.

However, Ten Hag has stated that De Ligt, Mazraoui, and Zirkzee could all be involved tonight.

We will have to wait and see in what capacity.

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United boss, speaking on Thursday:

The team is not ready but the league starts. There are more managers who definitely have this problem but we have to make a start. We can't hide from it. We can't run away from it. We have to deal with it.

Issues are there but it's not about the players who are not available. It's also what I said always last season. It's about the players who are available and we have a good group, we can make a strong selection, we can put out a strong team so we will do.

It's hard to explain just how excited I am right now.

I have loved this year's summer of sport, it truly has been spectacular, but nothing says Olympic hangover cure quite like the Premier League.

Yes, I know that English football returned last week - sadly I had to watch a team I very much like lose - but it doesn't quite compare to the curtain raiser of England's top flight (please don't be angry EFL fans).

Tonight it's serving up a gorgeous starter to a weekend of action as Manchester United take on Fulham.

Erik ten Hag clung on to his job last year after a dreadful season and now he needs to make amends.

Meanwhile, Marco Silva has lost some of his key stars this summer but also brought in some new ones.

These two served up some cracking games last year (sorry to remind you United fans), so this match promises a lot.

Let's hope to see fireworks to start the show that is 2024-25.

Just like ABBA sing in Mamma Mia, here we go again!

Time just moves so quickly, doesn't it? It feels like just yesterday I was sat at this keyboard typing sweet nothings about the conclusion of last season.

Just three months later after the highs and lows of Euro 2024, and the drama of the Olympics, the Premier League is back.

And where better to start than the Theatre of Dreams.

Erik ten Hag will be hoping his come true this season after the league horrors of last year as his Manchester United side look to get off to a flyer against Fulham.

But if we know United, it won't be straightforward.

Get yourselves strapped in, the wheels are about to start rolling on what will be a rollercoaster of a season.

And here is how Fulham line-up...

There is one name that pops straight out of the screen, and that is Emile Smith-Rowe.

The attacking midfielder is thrown straight into start after signing for Fulham from Arsenal earlier in the transfer window.

Adama Traore also gets his start.

Well then, the team is in.

It's a big day for Amad Diallo as he starts in a front three with Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford.

There is no spot for Alejandro Garnacho, though. Interesting.

Mason Mount gets his chance to shine in the middle of the park, a rare start for him.

Meanwhile, Noussair Mazraoui does indeed make his Man United debut after signing this week, while Matthijs de Ligt is on the bench.

Thoughts, United fans?