United’s Early Season Test at Craven Cottage

Manchester United face a crucial challenge on Sunday afternoon as they travel to Craven Cottage to meet Fulham in the second round of the Premier League 2025/26 season. Kick-off is set for 15:30 GMT, and all eyes will be on whether the Red Devils can bounce back after a disappointing opening loss.

Can Amorim Spark a Reaction?

Head coach Rúben Amorim knows the pressure is already mounting. His team fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at Old Trafford in their first match, a result that left fans frustrated not only by the scoreline but also by the number of missed chances. Will United’s stars finally find their finishing touch? That remains the key question heading into this fixture.

Leaders on the Pitch

Amorim will be looking to his senior figures for inspiration. Bruno Fernandes, the captain, alongside Casemiro, Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot, are expected to take responsibility and steady the ship. Yet, there is lingering concern between the posts: goalkeeper Altay Bayındır came under scrutiny after costly errors against Arsenal, making the goalkeeping position a talking point among supporters.

A Record Amorim Would Rather Forget

Statistics tell their own story. Following the Arsenal defeat, Amorim set an unwanted record by becoming the fastest Manchester United manager to reach 15 Premier League losses since 2010. He has now suffered 15 defeats in his first 28 league matches—an alarming figure for a club of United’s stature.

United’s Bigger Mission

For United, this season represents more than just winning games; it is about restoring pride and reconnecting with their identity. Last season’s 15th-place finish was a painful low point, and bouncing back quickly is vital to regain confidence both inside the dressing room and among the fanbase.

Fulham’s Bright Start

On the other side, Fulham enter this clash with renewed confidence. They held Brighton to a 1-1 draw in their opening game, showing resilience and character. At home, Marco Silva’s men will look to frustrate United and possibly snatch all three points, making this match far from straightforward for the visitors.

Head-to-Head: History Favors United

According to Transfermarkt, history leans heavily in United’s favor. Across 91 previous meetings, the Red Devils have claimed 58 victories, compared to Fulham’s 15 wins and 18 draws. United have scored 186 goals against Fulham while conceding 100—a clear sign of dominance in this fixture. Yet, football is never just about history; every match writes its own story.

As the sun sets on Sunday in London, the spotlight will shine brightly on Manchester United. Can Amorim and his squad silence the critics with a strong performance, or will Fulham’s fighting spirit pile further pressure on the Red Devils?

What is certain is that this encounter offers far more than just three points—it represents an opportunity for redemption, resilience, and a statement of intent in the Premier League 2025/26 season.