Manchester United suffered a humiliating 2-0 defeat to newly promoted Hull City on Saturday, making a dismal start to their Premier League campaign.

Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi opened the scoring before Nobel Mendy doubled Hull’s advantage in the first half as Sergej Jakirović’s side stunned United at the MKM Stadium.

Hull, back in the Premier League for the first time since 2017, were missing 10 players through injury but produced a spirited display to secure a historic victory over the visitors.

Ajayi put the hosts ahead after bundling a loose ball into the net following a corner. The goal was his first in the Premier League in five years and Hull’s first league goal in nine years.

The Nigerian defender also became the first Nigerian to score a Premier League goal since Alex Iwobi in March.

Hull doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Mendy rose to head home from a Slatter free-kick delivery, sending the home side into the break with a 2-0 advantage.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick introduced Marcus Rashford after the interval as his side searched for a response, with Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire coming close to reducing the deficit.

However, United failed to find a breakthrough and were condemned to their first defeat against a newly promoted side in 13 matches.

The result also ended Hull’s long wait for a victory over Manchester United, with the Tigers securing their first win against the Red Devils in all competitions since 1974.

United had handed Premier League debuts to Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but both midfielders struggled to make an impact as the visitors produced little to suggest they are ready to challenge champions Arsenal for the title.

The defeat was United’s first on the opening day since 2021 and leaves Carrick with plenty to address ahead of their next league fixture against another promoted side, Ipswich.

Hull, meanwhile, will celebrate one of the biggest victories in the club’s recent history after returning to the top flight with a statement win.