Manchester United’s £36 million signing, Joshua Zirkzee, announced his arrival at Old Trafford in dramatic fashion, scoring an 87th-minute winner to edge out Fulham in the Premier League opener.
The match seemed destined for a draw until Zirkzee, brought on in the second half alongside Alejandro Garnacho, made his mark. Garnacho whipped in a cross from the right, and Zirkzee, with composure beyond his years, guided the ball into the bottom corner, crushing Fulham’s hopes.
United had the better of the chances but struggled to find the back of the net. Andre Onana was tested early, tipping a Kenny Tete shot over the bar, but from there, it was United who posed the greater threat. Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, was in exceptional form, denying Bruno Fernandes twice and making a crucial save to stop Mason Mount after a Marcus Rashford cross.
As frustration grew, United kept pressing, with Fernandes coming close again, only to be thwarted by Leno. In the stands, co-chairman Avie Glazer and new chief executive Omar Berrada watched as their team fought for a breakthrough.
Just when it seemed like Fulham might escape with a point, Zirkzee’s clinical finish ensured United took all three. Erik ten Hag’s team, perhaps not at their sharpest, still found a way to secure victory and give their new striker a debut to remember.
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