The English Premier League season kicks off on Friday with Manchester United hosting Fulham at Old Trafford in the opening game of the season. Both teams enter the match with questions surrounding their performances from the previous season. United’s manager Erik ten Hag admits his team is not fully prepared but is ready to face the challenge. Fulham, on the other hand, finished in a respectable 13th place last season mainly due to their strong home performances.
Manchester United will be missing Leny Yoro due to a foot injury, and Harry Maguire will undergo a late fitness test after picking up a knock. Fulham, on the other hand, enter the season with a fully fit squad, including new record signing Emile Smith Rowe. Despite United’s dominance in previous matchups, Fulham will look to repeat their upset victory from last season.
Manchester United also announced a contract extension for their captain Bruno Fernandes, providing a boost to the team. New defensive signings Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are expected to make their debuts. Fulham, on the other hand, will have to adjust to the losses of key defenders and midfielder Joao Palhinha.
With both teams looking to start the season on a positive note, the match promises to be an exciting opener. Fans can follow the action on Al Jazeera Sport with full text commentary of the game. The head-to-head history between the clubs shows United’s dominance, but Fulham will be eager to cause an upset at Old Trafford once again.
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