Nigeria’s Fulham duo, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, are set to kick off their 2024/25 English Premier League campaign with high hopes as they face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Friday. The match, which serves as the season opener, is a crucial test for Fulham, who are eager to secure an early victory against the Red Devils.
Iwobi and Bassey, who were both on target the last time the two sides met, will be looking to replicate their previous success. Iwobi’s dramatic 97th-minute goal in February secured a 2-1 victory for Fulham at Old Trafford, marking the Cottagers’ first win at the iconic stadium in 25 attempts. This victory also ended a long-standing streak, as Manchester United had only lost to Fulham three times in their previous 33 Premier League encounters.
Fulham will be buoyed by the fact that three of their last four league meetings with Manchester United have been won by the away side, each victory sealed by a late goal. Marco Silva’s side is also bolstered by his unbeaten record in nine opening-day matches, pointing towards a potentially positive outcome today.
As Manchester United have been actively bolstering their squad, Fulham is in the process of rebuilding following the summer departures of key players like Tosin Adarabioyo, Joao Palhinha, and long-serving defender Tim Ream. Bassey is expected to start in defense alongside Issa Diop, while new signing Jorge Cuenca may need more time to adjust to the team.
In the attack, Iwobi is likely to line up with Andreas Pereira, Rodrigo Muniz, and new signing Emile Smith Rowe. Iwobi, who has expressed his determination to contribute to the team’s success, emphasized his role in creating chances for his teammates.
“If I can’t score, at least I’m able to create chances for my teammates,” Iwobi stated on the club’s website. “Smith Rowe and Adama Traore are going to put those chances away. It’s not just them—there are so many goal threats in this team. I’ve played with Emile in the past; I know what kind of runs and qualities he can bring to the team. I’ve made him feel welcome—he’s scored two in two now—hopefully, he can make it three in three against United.”
Fulham, who finished the 2023/24 season in 13th place, are eager to start the new campaign on a strong note under the leadership of Marco Silva. The match against Manchester United is scheduled to kick off at 20:00, with both teams looking to make an early statement in the new Premier League season.
