Hull City's Premier League opponent Manchester United has received a double injury boost ahead of their opening match against the Tigers. Benjamin Sesko, the centre-forward, has been absent from all of United's pre-season games this summer due to an injury sustained during the triumph against Liverpool on May 3. He is projected to be United's primary striker this season, assuming he is available. Bryan Mbeumo has led the line in his absence, scoring a brace in the 2-1 win against Atletico Madrid and an equaliser in the tie with Paris Saint-Germain. Joshua Zirkzee and Matheus Cunha have both played centre-forward as Michael Carrick considered his options.
What happened?
Matthijs de Ligt, a long-term absence, was also in the training squad. He was spotted going through workouts at Carrington last week and is working on his recuperation ahead of his comeback to the club. The Dutch international last appeared for United in a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace last year. He was first diagnosed with a minor back issue. However, the issue held him out for the rest of the campaign. De Ligt had surgery at the end of last season to correct the problem. However, his return will give Carrick more options at the back ahead of the new season.
Why it matters for Hull City
While the additions of Sesko and De Ligt have given United hope, Mason Mount was once again absent. Mount, like Andrey Santos, shined in the early weeks of preseason before suffering an injury in the 1-1 tie with PSG. Hull City currently sits 18 points behind leaders Coventry in the title race. They have scored 64 goals and conceded 60 this season, with their next fixture against Sunderland at home on February 10, 2027.
What comes next?
The Tigers will be looking to bounce back from their recent form, which has seen them lose their last three matches. They will be hoping that the return of key players like Tom Eaves and George Honeyman will give them the boost they need to get back on track. Meanwhile, Manchester United will be looking to build on their recent form and get off to a strong start in the Premier League. With the return of Sesko and De Ligt, they will be confident of getting the three points against Hull City.
