Shearer questions Man Utd fitness after Hull loss

Manchester United began their Premier League season with a shocking 2-0 defeat to newly promoted Hull City on Saturday, August 22, 2026, prompting former England captain Alan Shearer to question the fitness of Michael Carrick's squad. The loss at Hull's stadium marked the first time the Tigers had beaten United in 52 years and handed Carrick a dismal start to his permanent tenure as head coach. Hull took control early, with defender Semi Ajayi scoring in the 17th minute by pouncing on a rebound after a corner. The hosts doubled their lead before halftime when Nobel Mendy converted a free kick delivered by Regan Slater. United brought on Marcus Rashford at halftime in an attempt to change the game, but Hull's defense held firm for a deserved victory. Shearer, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live and Match of the Day, delivered a harsh verdict on United's performance. "They have been absolutely shocking, no intensity, no closing down, no hunger, they've been terrible," he said. He specifically highlighted a lack of physical readiness. "I haven't seen Manchester United in preseason, but I saw them in this game and they didn't look fit.