Manchester United began their Premier League campaign with a humiliating 2-0 defeat to newly promoted Hull City on Saturday — a result that etched an unwanted first into the club's long history.

Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, reacting first to a rebound off a corner kick to volley into an empty net after United's defence failed to clear. Noel Mendy then doubled Hull City's advantage in the 38th minute, heading home a perfectly flighted set piece past the United goalkeeper.

According to OptaJoe, the loss marks the first time in Manchester United's history that they have been beaten on the opening day of a league season by a newly promoted club. Before Saturday, United had won 10 of their previous 13 opening-day fixtures against promoted sides, drawing the other three.