Premier League: Semi Ajayi finds the net again after five years

22.08.26 FT English Premier League

Hull

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Manchester United

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Semi Ajayi made a spectacular return to the Premier League. On the opening day of the 2026-2027 season—and, crucially, marking Hull City's grand comeback to the top flight—the Nigerian defender struck first against Manchester United in the 17th minute, giving the Tigers an early lead in this marquee clash. Hull thus returns to the Premier League after several years away.

This goal carries special significance for Ajayi. The Nigerian had not scored in the Premier League since the 2020-2021 season, when he played for West Bromwich Albion. His strike against Manchester United is his first in England's top division for nearly five years, and just his third overall in the competition.

Ajayi opened his Premier League account on December 27, 2020, against Liverpool. He found the net again on January 16, 2021, during West Bromwich Albion's trip to Wolverhampton. In that 2020-2021 campaign, he scored two league goals and made 33 appearances, according to available records.

His 34th match in the top flight

With this latest goal, Ajayi now has three Premier League goals in his 34th appearance. His return to the top tier follows several seasons in the Championship with West Bromwich Albion, before joining Hull City.

The 32-year-old defender brings valuable experience to a side rejoining the highest level of English football. His goal against Manchester United is a fitting reward for a player who had to wait years before stepping onto a Premier League pitch again.

For Hull City, this match against Manchester United is also a symbolic moment: the Tigers are playing their first top-flight league match since earning promotion at the end of last season.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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