Man United opens 2024/25 EPL campaign with win over Fulham

Manchester United’s 1-0 win over Fulham at Old Trafford launched the 2024/25 campaign of the English Premier League.

A debut goal for Joshua Zirkzee, who came off the bench, gave Man United the win on the first day of the season.

The goal came late in the 87th minute, courtesy of an assist from Alejandro Garnacho, whose nicely squared pass was met by Zirkzee to hand Manchester United all three points on his debut.

After recording their lowest-ever Premier League finish last season, United looked set to be frustrated at Old Trafford on Friday until their new striker diverted a deft finish past Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

Leno had an excellent night, making two brilliant saves from the Bruno Fernandes in swift succession, keeping the game all squared in the first half, as his defenders also blocked off the Portuguese attempt.

The former Arsenal shot stopper also denied Mason Mount at the start of the second half, but was left helpless when Zirkzee charged into the area to settle the contest.

Alejandro Garnacho missed a seater at stoppage time when teed up by Marcus Rashford, but the miss did not cost United, who secured a winning start to the new campaign.

Zirkzee became the 15th Dutch player to score on his Premier League debut, and the fourth United’s to do so after Ruud van Nistelrooy, Alexander Buttner and Donny van de Beek.

His goal ensured United have more wins (22) and more points (70) from their opening games of Premier League campaigns than any other side.

The Red Devils are featuring in their 100th season in top-flight football, making them the fifth team to reach the milestone after Everton, Aston Villa, Liverpool and Arsenal.