Manchester United's Premier League campaign got off to a miserable start as newly promoted Hull City claimed a shock victory, sealed by two first-half goals that gave the home side their first-ever top-flight win over United and their first success in a league meeting between the clubs since 1974. The defeat also marked the first time United have lost their opening match of a season to a newly promoted team.
The result triggered wild celebrations from the home support at Hull's stadium, with a mocking chant aimed at United fans after an announcement revealed two return trains to Manchester had been cancelled. For a travelling contingent of around 2,400 supporters, it capped off a thoroughly forgettable afternoon.
Former United striker Wayne Rooney, speaking to BBC Sport, pointed to United's lack of attacking threat as the most concerning aspect of the display. He noted that facing a newly promoted side away from home in the opening fixture is always a tricky assignment, and felt United simply were not ready for the challenge.
Alan Shearer offered a different diagnosis, suggesting on BBC Radio Five Live that fitness levels appeared to be an issue, saying the team did not look prepared for 90 minutes of intense, high-energy football. However, question marks over United's conditioning had not been prominent before last weekend's pre-season defeat to AC Milan, with six of manager Ruben Carrick's starting XI having returned to training as early as 9 July.
United captain Bruno Fernandes offered his own explanation after the match, telling TNT that the side had repeated errors from away fixtures last season.