Joshua Zirkzee marked his Manchester United debut with a dramatic late goal, securing a 1-0 victory over Fulham in the opening match of the Premier League season. Zirkzee, who joined United from Bologna for £36.5 million last month, came on in the final half-hour and scored in the 87th minute, converting a cross from Alejandro Garnacho.
Despite a lack of match fitness, the Dutch international delivered the winning strike, giving Erik ten Hag’s side a crucial start to the campaign. The match at Old Trafford was a tense affair, with United struggling to break down Fulham’s defense. Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount both had chances, but it was Zirkzee who ultimately made the difference.
Ten Hag, who narrowly avoided the sack last season after winning the FA Cup despite an eighth-place finish in the Premier League, acknowledged the need for improvement but was pleased with the victory. Fulham, who had defeated United at Old Trafford earlier in the year, came close to taking the lead, but United’s defense held firm, with Lisandro Martinez making a crucial clearance late in the game.
Zirkzee’s goal ensured a winning start for United, and while Garnacho missed a late chance to double the lead, the Red Devils secured all three points, giving Ten Hag and his team a positive beginning to the new season.
