Dream debut for Zirkzee secures late victory for Man United

After months of quietness, the Premier League is finally back in action. On Friday Manchester United and Fulham opened the new season. Joshua Zirkzee has quickly established himself as the new hero at Old Trafford. The striker, recently acquired from Bologna, delivered a dramatic late winner for Manchester United on Friday evening in the Premier League opener against Fulham. Zirkzee secured the victory three minutes from time, capping off a memorable debut. Fellow Dutchman Matthijs de Ligt and Moroccan right-back Noussair Mazraoui also made their first appearances for the Red Devils.

Thrilling debut for Zirkzee

The first major incident occurred within the opening ten minutes, with Old Trafford calling for a penalty after what appeared to be a foul on Amad Diallo. However, VAR reviewed the incident but opted not to intervene, reflecting the Premier League’s new directive for less frequent VAR involvement. The decision was promptly explained on social media, as part of the league’s initiative for greater transparency.

For the first quarter-hour, Manchester United struggled to impose their will on the match, but they soon found their rhythm. With Noussair Mazraoui starting, United began to create chances, notably through Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder, who recently signed a contract extension, had two promising opportunities to open the scoring but was unable to convert. In a notable moment just before halftime, Harry Maguire received a yellow card for a blatant dive, trying to win a penalty in an overly theatrical manner.

United’s pressure pays off late

Fulham refused to be overwhelmed in the second half, but Ten Hag’s side remained dominant. While Fernandes and Casemiro had been United’s main threats in the first half, others began to step up after the break. Mason Mount tested Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who delivered a stellar performance, while young talent Kobbie Mainoo saw his effort narrowly miss the target.

With the match heading into its final stages, the Old Trafford crowd erupted in anticipation—not for a goal, but for the debut of Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker replaced Mason Mount in a bid to break the deadlock. Despite United’s control, clear-cut chances remained elusive against a resolute Fulham defense.

Then, in the 87th minute, Zirkzee ensured his debut would be one to remember. A well-timed cross from the right wing found the striker, who coolly slotted home to secure all three points for United. Just as it seemed the home side would have to settle for a draw, Zirkzee’s clinical finish saved the day. The United defense, bolstered by Matthijs de Ligt’s debut, comfortably held off Fulham’s late attempts to equalize. Despite a golden opportunity for Alejandro Garnacho to double the lead, which he squandered, Zirkzee’s strike was enough to make him the matchwinner.

Tough tests ahead

Next up for Manchester United is a challenging away fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday afternoon. The week after, they will face their fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford, in what promises to be an early season blockbuster.

Zirkzee’s dream debut has set the tone for a promising campaign under Ten Hag, with fans eagerly anticipating what’s to come.