🤯THE MISS OF THE SEASON 🤯Garnacho shocks De ligt and the fans with the strangest scenario for a forward in less than a minute to round up.😳😱 🗣️”I shouted Goalllllll,but the ball wasn’t going into the net 🥅… 👀 ⌛Minute 89: The United players did an imaginary tiki-taka from goal to goal until the ball reached Garnacho , who was completely alone with the goal and the fans stood up to celebrate, but Gernacho decided to shock everyone and waste the opportunity in a very strange way.😰😰 👀😱Watch the wonder and strangeness that happened from Garnacho , how he missed 3 scoring opportunities in less than 15 minutes, and the reaction and shock De ligt in the warm-up.😱😰

Manchester United’s preseason optimism faced a significant challenge in their Premier League opener against Fulham. What initially seemed like it would end in a frustrating draw was turned around by a last-minute goal from Joshua Zirkzee, securing a tight 1-0 victory for the Red Devils. This hard-earned win not only temporarily placed United atop the league standings but also highlighted the difficulties the team may encounter in the coming season.

United began the match with their characteristic intensity, controlling possession from the start. Erik ten Hag’s side looked determined to establish dominance, but Fulham had their own plans. Early on, Adama Traoré used his trademark speed and strength to surge past United’s right-back, Noussair Mazraoui, causing a brief scare for the home team. Although Traoré’s final pass missed its mark, it served as a warning that Fulham could exploit any lapses in United’s defense.

In response to Fulham’s early threat, United increased the tempo and created several scoring opportunities. Casemiro was a constant presence in the midfield and nearly scored on more than one occasion. Bruno Fernandes also had two clear chances to score, but Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, was in excellent form, frustrating the Portuguese playmaker and keeping Fulham in the game.

Despite United’s relentless efforts, their attack was often disrupted by misplaced passes and a lack of cohesion. This disjointed play made it difficult for the Red Devils to sustain an offensive threat, allowing Fulham to stay in the contest. As the first half ended, the score remained 0-0, reflecting United’s struggle to convert their dominance into goals.

The second half saw a slight improvement in United’s performance. Mason Mount, eager to make an impact after an injury-hit previous season, came close to breaking the deadlock. However, Leno was once again up to the challenge, denying Mount and keeping the score level. Recognizing the need for a creative spark, Ten Hag brought on Joshua Zirkzee around the 60th minute to add some much-needed flair to United’s attack, which had so far been stifled by Fulham’s resolute defense.

Fulham also had their moments in the second half. Former United player Andreas Pereira almost delivered a decisive blow to his old team, weaving through United’s defense with ease but failing to connect with Alex Iwobi, allowing United to escape unscathed. As the match seemed destined for a frustrating draw, Zirkzee made the difference. In the final moments, Alejandro Garnacho, who had replaced the ineffective Amad Diallo, delivered a precise cross into the box. Zirkzee, with great composure, executed a clever flick that finally beat Leno, sending Old Trafford into celebrations. The relief was palpable as United secured the crucial three points on the opening weekend.

United’s performance, though far from perfect, underscored the importance of resilience and capitalizing on opportunities. The victory puts them in a favorable early-season position, but it also exposes areas that need improvement. Ten Hag will undoubtedly be pleased with the result but aware of the work required to refine the team’s play.

### Player Ratings:

– **Andre Onana – 7/10:** Onana’s early save against Kenny Tete was crucial for preserving United’s clean sheet, continuing to prove he’s a strong upgrade from David de Gea.

– **Diogo Dalot – 6/10:** Playing out of position at left-back, Dalot was defensively solid but offered little in attack, effectively neutralizing Alex Iwobi.

– **Harry Maguire – 7/10:** Maguire led the defense with authority, particularly in aerial duels. Despite missing the Euros due to injury, he appeared sharp, though his dive in the box was unnecessary.

– **Lisandro Martinez – 6/10:** Martinez dealt well with Adama Traoré’s physicality and was a commanding presence in United’s backline.

– **Noussair Mazraoui – 6/10:** After an early scare against Traoré, Mazraoui adjusted well to the pace and physicality of the Premier League in a challenging debut.

– **Casemiro – 6/10:** A mixed performance from the Brazilian midfielder, who missed an early header and misplaced several passes, though he grew into the game as it progressed.

– **Kobbie Mainoo – 7/10:** Mainoo impressed with his composure and effective ball distribution, showing signs of becoming a key player for United this season.

– **Mason Mount – 6/10:** Still regaining match fitness after a long absence, Mount struggled to make a significant impact and missed a close-range chance.

– **Amad Diallo – 5/10:** Diallo, surprisingly given a start, failed to capitalize on the opportunity and will need to step up to secure a regular place in the lineup.

– **Bruno Fernandes – 6/10:** Fernandes had a disappointing outing, missing two clear chances. Playing as a false nine didn’t suit him, and he’s expected to perform better in his usual attacking midfield role.

– **Marcus Rashford – 5/10:** Rashford struggled to make an impact, contributing little beyond assisting Mount’s chance and continuing his quest for redemption after missing England selection.

### Substitutes:

– **Joshua Zirkzee – 7/10:** Zirkzee made an immediate impact off the bench, scoring the winning goal that earned United the victory, a performance that will boost his confidence.

– **Alejandro Garnacho – 6/10:** Garnacho replaced the ineffective Diallo and assisted Zirkzee’s winner, though he missed a clear chance to score himself.

– **Jonny Evans – 5/10:** Evans replaced Maguire and helped maintain United’s solid defense in the closing stages.

– **Matthijs de Ligt – 5/10:** De Ligt had a steady performance after being brought on to shift Martinez to left-back.

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

In conclusion, Manchester United’s narrow win over Fulham was a result of perseverance and a moment of individual brilliance from Joshua Zirkzee. While the victory is a promising start, United still have much to improve on if they are to reach their full potential this season.