The opening game of the 2024/25 Premier League season sees Manchester United host Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday evening.
United are coming off a disappointing campaign in 2023/24 in which they finished eighth - a final position which many fans and pundits believed would cost Erik ten Hag his job.
An FA Cup win earned him more time, and he was allowed to stay and even help recruit a number of new signings.
Fulham may have loftier hopes than avoiding relegation this season, but they will be delighted to still be a Premier League side this time next year.
Man Utd recent form
Man Utd have actually played a competitive game this season so far and it came last week in the Community Shield in which they lost on penalties to rivals Manchester City.
In pre-season, they lost against Rosenborg, Arsenal and Liverpool and defeated Rangers and Real Betis.
Man Utd injury news
Even so early in the season, Man Utd have a mini injury crisis. Rasmus Hojlund is out for several weeks with a hamstring injury, while Leny Yoro will have to wait at least a couple of months before making his competitive debut as he has fractured a metatarsal.
Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Victor Lindelof are all out, too, while Harry Maguire is struggling for fitness.
It will be up to Ten Hag whether or not to throw new signings Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee into the mix from the start.
Fulham recent form
In pre-season friendlies, Fulham won three friendlies versus Luton, Benfica and Hoffenheim, though they lost 2-1 at home against Sevilla.
Fulham injury news
Marco Silva has the benefit of a fully fit squad heading into the game.
Man Utd vs Fulham - who is the referee and VAR?
Referee: Robert Jones.
Assistants: Ian Hussin, Simon Bennett
Fourth official: Anthony Taylor
VAR: Jarred Gillett
Assistant VAR: Darren Cann.
Man Utd - Player to Watch?
Bruno Fernandes signed a new Man Utd contract this week to extend his stay until 2027 which displayed his commitment to the team. While new signings take time to settle, he'll remain United's main man.
Fulham - Player to Watch?
Fulham completed the signing of Emile Smith Rowe in the summer for big money in what was a bit of a coup acquisition for the club. He scored only minuted into his debut in a friendly, so already looks comfortable in the team.
Man Utd vs Fulham - Prediction
Man Utd have the benefit of being at home on the opening fixture which makes them favourites against Fulham, but you never quite know what Ten Hag side is going to turn up.
The Red Devils should shade this one narrowly 2-1.
Fernandes was the only scorer when the sides met last season at Craven Cottage last season and you wouldn't bet against him opening the scoring here.
Man Utd 
Fulham 
