Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic remains determined to defy expectations despite his side’s impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester United on the opening day of the Premier League season. The newly promoted Tigers, returning to the top flight, face widespread predictions of relegation and are considered by bookmakers to be the favorites to finish at the bottom of the table.

The win against Manchester United at the MKM Stadium marked Hull’s first Premier League victory over the club and came amid skepticism about their ability to remain in the division. Just days before the match, former West Ham players Joe Cole and Carlton Cole publicly questioned Hull’s chances of survival in the league. Today, Hull are set to face Coventry City, another newly promoted side that secured the Championship title last season with a strong performance.

Jakirovic, who is 49 years old and of Bosnian nationality, acknowledged the challenges his team faces but emphasized his belief in the squad’s potential. “It is a great motivation for me that I can show my potential and we can be competitive and play against much bigger teams,” he said. “We want to prove everybody wrong and that we are on a good track. That is good motivation. We are underdogs.”

He also highlighted the financial disparities between Hull and some of their Premier League rivals, noting the club’s total spending of £144 million in the transfer market. Jakirovic contrasted this figure with Coventry’s reported expenditure of between £260 million and £270 million, pointing out that higher spending does not guarantee success. “Money doesn’t play. I never see money scoring the goal — it is players. As a team, we can be dangerous and competitive,” he added.

As Hull City attempt to build on their strong start, Jakirovic’s focus remains on maintaining the team’s momentum and securing their place in the Premier League beyond this season.