Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has insisted he will not press the panic button after his side suffered a damaging 2-0 defeat to newly promoted Hull City in their Premier League opener.

United, who were expected to challenge for the title after finishing third last season, were stunned at the MKM Stadium as goals from Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy handed Hull a dream return to the top flight.

The defeat raised early questions over United’s readiness for a title challenge, with Hull producing a fearless performance despite missing 10 players through injury.

However, Carrick refused to criticise his players or create unnecessary tension following the disappointing result.

“It is not a nice feeling but it is not going to change our direction as a team or a club,” Carrick said.

The United boss admitted his team must improve against different tactical approaches but insisted calmness was necessary rather than an emotional reaction.

“We just don’t all have to shout and scream and create some chaos. Calmness doesn’t mean there is not emotion,” he added.

Hull’s victory marked their first Premier League campaign since 2017, while United now face early pressure to respond quickly if they are to maintain their title ambitions.