To me He deserves the Man of the match award today because that is what we have been missing for long now”, Bruno Fernandez reveals the only Manchester United player that gave Him joy in today’s victory against Fulham.

Manchester United’s pre-season excitement faced a setback with a frustrating draw against Fulham, but a late goal from Joshua Zirkzee secured a narrow 1-0 victory, temporarily putting them at the Premier League’s summit.

United began energetically, asserting their dominance early on. Fulham’s Adama Traoré posed a threat by getting past Noussair Mazraoui on the right, but his final delivery missed the mark. Manchester United responded with increased pressure, with Casemiro coming close on multiple occasions and Bruno Fernandes missing two prime opportunities thanks to Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno.

Despite United’s efforts, their attack was marred by numerous inaccurate passes, complicating their play unless Fulham made an error. The first half ended without goals, reflecting United’s struggle to find their rhythm.

The second half saw United show more promise, with Mason Mount nearly breaking the deadlock, but Leno continued to thwart their attempts. Zirkzee was introduced around the 60th minute to provide creativity, while Fulham missed a key chance when Andreas Pereira broke through United’s defense but failed to connect with Alex Iwobi.

The match remained tense until the final moments. Both sides had their chances, but Zirkzee’s clever flick in the dying moments proved decisive, securing a crucial win for United on the opening weekend of the season.

Player Ratings:

–Andre Onana – 7/10:** Onana made a crucial save early on to deny Kenny Tete. Continuing his strong form from last season, he appears to be a significant upgrade over David de Gea.

–Diogo Dalot – 6/10:Filling in at left-back due to injuries, Dalot was solid defensively but less effective in attack. He effectively neutralized Alex Iwobi throughout the game.

–Harry Maguire – 7/10:Maguire was commanding in aerial duels and led the defense effectively. Despite missing the Euros, he looked sharp, although his diving attempt might be one he would prefer to forget.

–Lisandro Martinez – 6/10:Known as ‘The Butcher,’ Martinez managed Adama Traoré’s physicality well. His presence was missed last season, and maintaining this form will be key for Ten Hag.

–Noussair Mazraoui – 6/10:Initially outpaced by Traoré, Mazraoui adapted and performed well in a challenging debut.

–Casemiro – 6/10:Casemiro had a mixed performance, missing an early header and making some inaccurate passes. He gradually adjusted to the game despite some erratic attempts on goal.

–Kobbie Mainoo – 7/10:Mainoo was composed and effective in possession. He continues to be a promising prospect for United, bringing energy and dynamism to the midfield.

–Mason Mount – 6/10:Mount struggled to find his form, likely due to his extended absence last season. He missed a close-range chance but should improve with more match fitness.

–Amad Diallo – 5/10:Surprisingly selected ahead of Antony, Diallo had minimal impact and needs to perform better to secure a regular spot.

–Bruno Fernandes – 6/10:Fernandes had an off day, missing two clear chances. His role as a false nine didn’t suit him, and he’s expected to return to form in a more traditional role behind a striker like Zirkzee or Højlund.

–Marcus Rashford – 5/10:Rashford was largely ineffective, failing to make an impact despite his efforts to redeem himself after missing England selection. Besides assisting Mount’s chance, he struggled to influence the game.

Substitutes:

–Joshua Zirkzee – 7/10:Zirkzee made a strong impact with his introduction, and his late goal could be a significant boost as he aims to establish himself at Old Trafford.

– Alejandro Garnacho – 6/10:Garnacho replaced the underperforming Diallo and made a positive contribution with a crucial late assist, though he will regret missing a great scoring opportunity.

–Jonny Evans – 5/10:Evans replaced Maguire and delivered a solid defensive performance.

–Matthijs de Ligt – 5/10:De Ligt was brought on to shift Martinez to left-back and had a solid, though unremarkable, performance.

–Scott McTominay – 4/10:McTominay had minimal impact during his time on the field.