The Dutch striker made a stunning entrance at Old Trafford, netting a last-minute goal to secure a vital 1-0 victory against Fulham in Manchester United’s Premier League opener. With only three minutes remaining, Joshua Zirkzee broke the deadlock, relieving the mounting pressure on both United and their manager, Erik ten Hag, after being set up by Alejandro Garnacho.
United struggled to break down a determined Fulham defense, and goalkeeper Bernd Leno could have easily been the match’s MVP if not for Zirkzee’s late heroics. This led Ten Hag to criticize his forwards for squandering numerous clear-cut chances until Zirkzee, coming off the bench, became the game-changer.
In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, Ten Hag stressed the importance of more clinical finishing: “We created a lot of chances and we should have scored earlier and that is the only criticism of the team – kill in the box. Against Fulham, it is always a difficult game, but we defended and pressed very well. After 10 minutes we found our spell in the game and we kept them under pressure.”
Ten Hag acknowledged the impact of Zirkzee’s goal, highlighting the critical role of substitutes in influencing the game’s outcome.
“Subs are always important, and it was good to see in the first game that you bring a sub on and he scores the winner. Everyone sees how crucial subs are, and they have to be ready,” he said.
“Scoring for a striker is important and he should be where he was, but he has more qualities and he has to get the right balance – he has to be arriving in the box to get the finishes, but we also want him to link up. We have some great midfielders around him to make up combinations. First game, but it is good to strengthen the belief. I have seen many spaces where we have to improve but that is normal.”
Had Fulham managed to hold on for a draw, the narrative could have been much different, increasing the scrutiny on Ten Hag and his team. However, with the first three points secured, the Red Devils will now turn their attention to their next match against Brighton on August 24.
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United is currently 1st in the Premier League with 3 points.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 1 goals and conceding 0.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 24th of August in Falmer.
