Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has rallied behind his former club after their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Hull City in the opening match of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
The Red Devils were beaten at home on Saturday as goals from Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy handed Hull a memorable victory and left United with an early setback.
Reacting to the result, De Gea took to X with a message of encouragement, reminding fans and players that the season has only just begun.
“It’s not how it starts, it’s how it ends. It is a marathon, not a sprint,” the Spanish goalkeeper wrote.
United manager Michael Carrick admitted the defeat was frustrating, particularly because both goals came from situations his side had previously handled well.
“Conceding two goals is frustrating. Set-pieces have been one of our strengths over time, but they decided the game today,” Carrick said.
He added that while there are obvious areas to improve, the team’s overall progress should not be judged by one result.
“One game doesn’t change the trajectory of what we’re building. We know what we need to improve, and now our focus is on the next match,” he said.
Carrick also stressed the importance of moving on quickly, insisting his players must take the campaign one week at a time and not allow the opening defeat to define their season.