Football

Manchester United's Premier League campaign got off to a winning start with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday. Despite a lackluster first-half performance, the Red Devils secured the three points thanks to a late goal from substitute Joshua Zirkzee.The home crowd was in high spirits before kickoff, with four new signings being unveiled on the pitch and new faces in the United boardroom. However, United struggled to break down a resolute Fulham defense in the opening 45 minutes. Captain Bruno Fernandes came closest to scoring, but his efforts were denied by Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.Frustrations grew after the break as United continued to misfire in attack. However, Dutch substitute Zirkzee arrived right on cue three minutes from time to earn United victory. The 21-year-old striker, who joined from Bayern Munich this summer, pounced on a loose ball in the Fulham area and fired home from close range."To win here in my first home game and to grab a goal, it couldn't be better," Zirkzee told Sky Sports. "I've been told (scoring at the Stretford End) is one of the best feelings at Man United. I'm so thankful and blessed I could experience it in my first game. It's an amazing feeling."The victory was a much-needed boost for United, who have not won a Premier League title since 2013. Manager Erik ten Hag will be pleased with the result, but he will know that his team still has much to improve on."We defended and pressed very well," Ten Hag said. "We created a lot of chances and we should have scored earlier. That is the only criticism of the team - kill in the box."Fulham manager Marco Silva was disappointed to take nothing from the match. "It is really tough for us to lose this game the way we lost," he said. "We started really well, but after 20 minutes United reacted well. We adjusted at halftime and the second half was much better."

Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee has completed a high-profile move to Manchester United from Bologna, signing a five-year contract with the Premier League giants. The transfer fee is reported to be in the region of 42.5 million euros ($46.35 million), payable over three years.Zirkzee, 23, enjoyed a stellar season with Bologna in Serie A last term, emerging as the club's top scorer with an impressive tally of 11 goals and five assists. His contributions played a pivotal role in securing Bologna's qualification for the Champions League group stage.The Dutch international expressed his delight at joining Manchester United, stating, "It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I'll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away."Zirkzee's arrival at Old Trafford is seen as a significant boost to United's attacking options. The Red Devils endured a disappointing Premier League campaign last season, finishing eighth in the standings, their worst-ever performance in the top flight. However, they managed to salvage their season with a victory in the FA Cup.Zirkzee's addition to the squad is expected to provide manager Erik ten Hag with greater depth and versatility in the forward line. The Dutch striker is known for his pace, power, and clinical finishing ability. He has also demonstrated an impressive work rate and a willingness to press from the front.Zirkzee's move to Manchester United marks a significant step in his career. The young striker has shown great promise at Bologna and has now earned the opportunity to prove himself at one of the biggest clubs in the world. With his talent and determination, Zirkzee has the potential to become a key player for United and help them challenge for major honors in the years to come.

Manchester United's summer transfer window has kicked off with a bang, with the club reportedly close to signing four players within the first 10 days. This marks a significant departure from previous transfer windows, where United's business typically began later in the summer.The new regime at Old Trafford, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has set the ball rolling early, with sporting directors Dan Ashworth and Christopher Vivell playing a key role in identifying and securing transfer targets.The first player on United's radar is Dutch defender Matthijs De Ligt from Bayern Munich. Sources have confirmed that United have agreed personal terms with the Dutchman and are willing to match Bayern's asking price of £42 million.Another Dutch player, Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, is also close to joining United. The 23-year-old has reportedly agreed personal terms and could make the move for a fee of £40 million.With Raphael Varane leaving on a free transfer, United have been scouting the market for defensive reinforcements. In addition to De Ligt, United have been pursuing Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton. However, after a £45 million bid was rejected, United have turned their attention to Lille defender Leny Yoro. A £42 million bid for Yoro has reportedly been accepted, although personal terms are yet to be agreed upon.United's early success in the transfer window can be attributed to the arrival of new owners and the implementation of a new recruitment system. The signings being targeted are all within the right age profile, playstyles, and price ranges, a departure from United's previous tendency to overpay for players who did not fit the system.If United can complete the signings of De Ligt, Zirkzee, Branthwaite, or Yoro, manager Erik Ten Hag will have a more competitive squad heading into the 2024-25 season.