As Manchester United prepares to kick off their Premier League campaign against Fulham, the mood at Old Trafford is one of cautious anticipation.

Manager Erik ten Hag has openly admitted that his team "is not ready" for the new season, a sentiment underscored by their underwhelming preseason, which concluded with a 3-0 defeat to Liverpool. This lackluster finish has done little to dispel the doubts that have lingered since last season, where United's form wavered significantly, leading to a disappointing end to the campaign.

Last season's struggles were highlighted by a shocking 2-1 defeat at home to Fulham in February, a result that epitomized United’s inconsistency. Despite dominating possession, United lacked the cutting edge, allowing Fulham to capitalize on their chances.

This defeat marked the beginning of a 17-game run where United managed just six wins, raising serious questions about the squad's ability to compete at the highest level. The team's FA Cup victory over Manchester City in May provided a brief respite, but the subsequent summer review by the club's new owners, INEOS, left ten Hag with a contract extension that some see as tentative support.

In response to these concerns, United has been active in the transfer market, securing the services of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. Both players are familiar to ten Hag from their time together at Ajax, and their inclusion in the squad for the Fulham match is expected to strengthen a defense that was often vulnerable last season. However, the team will still be without key players such as Rasmus Højlund, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia due to injuries, leaving United's backline somewhat exposed.

With these new signings and the continued support of the INEOS group, there is a sense that the pressure is on ten Hag to deliver results quickly. Fulham, who finished 13th last season, will be eager to replicate their Old Trafford success from earlier this year. As the curtain rises on the new season, Manchester United finds itself at a crossroads, where the first few games could set the tone for what lies ahead in a campaign already filled with uncertainty.

Manchester United vs Fulham Friday 16th August 2024 predictions.