New boy Joshua Zirkzee netted a late winner as Manchester United got their Premier League campaign off to the perfect start against Fulham on Friday evening.
A trio of recruits debuted, with Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt joining Zirkzee in making impressive cameos against Marco Silva’s side.
It was a fixture where a barrage of opportunities went begging for United until finally sealing the breakthrough late on.
Importantly, it was three points alongside a clean sheet and no fresh injury concerns for Erik ten Hag.
With much to digest, here are five things learned from the Red’s opening night of the 2024-25 season.
An instant impact from Zirkzee
It was a debut to remember for the new man.
Despite a lack of pre-season, Zirkzee made an instant impression, having been brought on just after the hour mark.
The powerful 23-year-old showed some lovely touches and link-up play before turning home Alejandro Garnacho’s cross to bag a vital winner on 87 minutes and crown a dream night.
He has settled quickly and eased the burden of Rasmus Hojlund’s injury. We couldn’t ask for more.
Noussair Mazraoui makes impressive start
We saw an intelligent maiden performance from Mazraoui.
The Moroccan moved from Bayern Munich earlier in the week but showed no signs of a lack of integration time.
He started on the right side of the defence – looking calm and composed on the ball from the off. Furthermore, he seems to have established a promising connection with Amad Diallo on the flank.
The former Ajax man never looked phased and worked tirelessly until departing the field in the 81st minute.
Casemiro is not finished yet
Many United supporters wanted the 32-year-old moved on this summer, and his form during pre-season did little to dissuade these sentiments.
However, a visibly leaner Casemiro followed an encouraging Community Shield outing with another industrious showing against the Cottagers.
Notably, it helped that he had protection and was not isolated in midfield – as was often the case last season.
It is clear he has plenty to offer the side in moving forward, but support is required.
Ten Hag will crave another midfielder before the deadline to remove some pressure from the Brazilian.
Harry Maguire proves his worth
The Englishman proved his doubters wrong last night with a towering display to fully justify his selection.
With many expecting De Ligt to feature from the start, Maguire was rock solid all evening – winning duels, intercepting passes, and even driving transitions.
The 31-year-old showed he still has a role to play at Old Trafford this season. He was Player of the Match for many in attendance.
Encouraging signs with more to come
Of course, it is only game week one – but we have to feel positive about our chances.
The team pressing looked better with evidence of a meticulous structure throughout.
But there were still some factors to be concerned about, with old patterns threatening to re-emerge.
Fulham broke clear on several occasions, but thankfully, United responded and managed to get a grip on proceedings.
The team still needs a younger alternative to Casemiro in midfield to help partner the precociously talented Kobbie Mainoo – with PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte said to be pushing hard for a move to M16.
What did you think about Manchester United’s opening night win over Fulham? Can they improve on last season?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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