Hull vs Man United: 3 key things as Carrick’s first full season starts with a trap

After guiding the Red Devils to third place and Champions League qualification last season, Carrick now faces the pressure of proving that his remarkable turnaround was not a short-term bounce.

United open their 2026/27 Premier League campaign away to newly promoted Hull City on Saturday, with the hosts returning to the top flight for the first time since 2017.

United’s impressive finish last season has raised expectations around Carrick. The former midfielder won 12 of his 17 games in charge and transformed a struggling side into a Champions League team.

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But opening-day optimism disappeared quickly in pre-season when United suffered a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan. 

Carrick admitted there were “no excuses” for the result, although he remained positive about his team’s overall preparations.

A win at Hull would immediately restore confidence and send a message that United are ready to challenge at the top end of the table.

Hull’s promotion was sealed through the play-offs after victories over Millwall and Middlesbrough. 

They were widely tipped to struggle last season but produced an unlikely late surge to return to England’s top flight.

Sergej Jakirovic has responded with a major rebuild, bringing in 11 new players and breaking the club’s transfer record.

The Tigers will be backed by a passionate home crowd and can attack United without the same pressure. That makes them a dangerous opponent.

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Carrick is expected to rely on Bruno Fernandes to control the attack, with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Amad Diallo offering pace and movement in the final third. 

Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos could also make their competitive debuts in midfield.

Hull, however, have defensive concerns. They conceded 66 goals in the Championship and could be without several key players, including goalkeeper Jack Butland and defenders Charlie Hughes and Oscar Zambrano.

History is firmly on United’s side. Hull have never beaten the Red Devils in 10 Premier League meetings, while United are unbeaten in 12 opening-day games against promoted teams.

Carrick’s side should have too much attacking quality, but Hull’s energy could make this uncomfortable.