Andy Cole believes Manchester United have a real chance to build some early momentum this season, with the club facing two newly promoted sides in their opening Premier League games.
Manchester United travel to Hull City on Saturday before facing Ipswich Town, and Andy Cole sees the fixtures as a good opportunity for Michael Carrick’s team.
However, he also knows there is a catch. Neither game will be as straightforward as it looks. There is a reason the opening fixtures might be tough for Manchester United.
Andy Cole expects Hull to throw everything at United
Speaking to The Busby Babe, Cole said Hull will be desperate to make an impression in their first Premier League match.
“I’m looking forward to it, I think United have a good opportunity playing newly promoted clubs in the first couple of games. I think we both know it’s not an easy league.”
The former Manchester United striker expects Hull to start quickly in front of their home supporters.
“Hull, being at home, will obviously want a good start. They’ll be throwing everything at United to see if they can weather the storm through the first 15 minutes or so. You never know what can happen.”
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Manchester United will be expected to win both opening matches, but Cole believes getting those points could set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
“Regardless of the players coming in or out, the aim is always the same to win matches. Football will never change.”
He added that carrying last season’s momentum into the new campaign could make a big difference.
“If they get off to a good start for the first couple of games, get some momentum, you never know where you can go from there.”
Andy Cole wants Manchester United to keep strengthening
Andy Cole is also happy with United’s attacking options but knows the club still need to consider whether another striker should arrive before the transfer deadline.
“I am. We can ask as many questions as we like, but to win football matches you need to score goals. That comes from the centre forward.”
He doesn’t think United should ignore the cost of finding another proven striker, though.
“To buy one nowadays is not cheap.”
That means Manchester United may have to work with the players already available while continuing to look for the right opportunity.
Cole also sees a clear need at left-back. Luke Shaw is currently the only fit senior option, although finding a player willing to compete for that role may not be easy.
“Luke is the only fit left back. But it’s all down to finances.”
The former striker believes Manchester United could have to spend around £50m-£60m for the right player, making the decision even more complicated.
Andy Cole sees Premier League title race wide open
Cole isn’t convinced Arsenal will simply retain control of the title race.
“I think it’s very open. Arsenal won it last year, to win it the year after is always difficult to defend.”
He also believes Manchester City could be much stronger this season after their late collapse last term.
“If you look at the way they won it in the end last season, for me, personally, Manchester City imploded the back end of the season. You’d never expect that of them.”
With Liverpool and several other sides also in the mix, Cole thinks the title race could be difficult to predict.
“For me it’s open. If any of those teams can have a good run… anything can happen.”
For Manchester United, it all starts with Hull City. A strong opening two games could give Carrick’s side the confidence and some momentum heading into a long season.
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