Manchester United began a campaign on Saturday with defeat for only the ninth time in 35 seasons of the modern era. But, with a visit to Hull City, it was the first time ever losing to newly promoted opposition on the opening weekend, Premier League or otherwise.
Preseason had gone well for Michael Carrick after landing the manager’s job on a permanent contract in May, but only 17 minutes of the season had elapsed when Hull defender Semi Ajayi converted a rebound after a corner. United dominated possession and had more attempts overall, but a second set-piece goal was their undoing towards the end of the first half. Nobel Mendy headed a Regan Slater free kick beyond Senne Lammens.
