Newly promoted Hull City produced one of the biggest upsets of the opening weekend as they defeated Manchester United 2-0 at the MKM Stadium on Saturday. First-half goals from defenders Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy condemned Michael Carrick’s side to a disappointing start to the 2026-27 Premier League campaign.

Hull, back in the top flight after a nine-year absence following their Championship play-off success, took the lead in the 17th minute. A corner caused problems in the United box, Oli McBurnie’s close-range effort was parried by goalkeeper Senne Lammens onto the post, and Ajayi reacted quickest to fire the rebound home.

The Tigers doubled their advantage before half-time. In the 38th minute, Regan Slater delivered a precise free-kick into the area and Mendy, making his Premier League debut after a club-record move, rose highest to power a header past Lammens.

It was Hull’s first league victory over United since 1974 and their first-ever win against them in the Premier League.

United, who finished third last season to secure Champions League football, looked disjointed and struggled to deal with Hull’s physicality and set-piece threat. Carrick introduced Marcus Rashford at half-time for his first competitive appearance in well over a year, but the visitors created few clear chances. Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis made several important saves, including a late stop from Bryan Mbeumo, as the home side defended resolutely to see out the result.

The defeat leaves United under early pressure after a lacklustre display, while Hull’s energetic and organised performance has given them the perfect start to life back in the Premier League.