Zirkzee’s debut goal secures Man United’s victory over Fulham
Joshua Zirkzee became an instant hero for Manchester United with a dramatic late goal to seal a 1-0 win over Fulham in their Premier League opener at Old Trafford on Friday.
The Dutch international, who joined from Bologna for £36.5m ($47 million) last month, came off the bench to make his mark, scoring in the 87th minute from Alejandro Garnacho’s cross.
Despite lacking match fitness, Zirkzee’s decisive strike was a crucial moment in a game where United struggled to find the back of the net.
“To win here in my first home game and score a goal, it couldn’t be better,” Zirkzee said.
“Scoring at the Stretford End is one of the best feelings at Manchester United. I’m so thankful and blessed I could experience it.”
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United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, faced a challenging start to the season. The team, coming off a mixed season and a FA Cup victory, showed signs of the same issues that plagued them last term.
With several key players missing due to injury and a lack of fitness, Ten Hag’s side appeared unprepared, as highlighted by their inability to convert early chances.
Bruno Fernandes played as a centre-forward due to Rasmus Hojlund’s absence, and Zirkzee, who had returned late from Euro 2024, was initially on the bench.
Noussair Mazraoui, recently signed from Bayern Munich, started at left-back. Jadon Sancho, despite resolving differences with Ten Hag, did not feature in the squad.
Fulham, who had previously secured a rare victory at Old Trafford in February, started confidently but failed to capitalize on their chances.
United’s goalkeeper, Andre Onana, made key saves, while Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, was forced into several crucial stops.
The game appeared destined to end in frustration for United until Zirkzee’s intervention. Garnacho’s cross, though not ideal, found Zirkzee who managed to poke it past Leno.
Despite a missed opportunity for a second goal by Garnacho in stoppage time, United held on to secure a vital three points.
Ten Hag’s side will look to build on this win as they continue their Premier League campaign.
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