Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has broken his silence on X following the club's shocking 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Hull City in the opening match of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The Spanish shot-stopper, who spent 12 years at Old Trafford, offered a brief but pointed message of encouragement to his former side.
De Gea's Message and Historic Defeat
Taking to his official X account, de Gea wrote: "It's not how it starts, it's how it ends." The post reflected the sentiment of a player who experienced both highs and lows during his long stint at the club, and who clearly maintains a connection to the team despite his departure.
As noted by ESPN, the defeat carries historic weight for Manchester United: it is the first time in their history that they have lost a Premier League opener against a newly-promoted side. It is also a painful beginning to manager Michael Carrick's first complete season in charge at Old Trafford.
Hull City's First-Half Goals
Hull City, making their return to the top flight, secured all three points through two first-half goals. Centre-back Semi Ajayi headed the visitors ahead before Nobel Mendy doubled the lead, leaving Manchester United with little to show at full time. The result sent shockwaves through English football, as the newly-promoted side stunned the Old Trafford crowd.
Michael Carrick and his players after the loss to Hull City were visibly disappointed, with the manager later urging fans not to read too much into the defeat. According to Legit.ng's earlier report, Carrick said it is just a match, even though they are disappointed to lose.
What's Next for United
Manchester United will have little time to dwell on the result. Their next Premier League fixture brings another newly-promoted side, Ipswich Town, to Old Trafford. The match offers Carrick's team an immediate opportunity to respond, though the Hull City result will have raised questions about the squad's readiness for the demands of the new campaign.
A second consecutive defeat to a promoted club so early in the season would deepen the pressure on the United camp significantly, making the Ipswich fixture a critical test of the team's resolve and preparation.
