Hull City manager Akirovic says Manchester United will start the opening Premier League fixture as favourites, but insists his side will do everything possible to make the match difficult for their visitors.
The Tigers will host Manchester United in the first round of the Premier League, with Akirovic using his pre-match press conference to discuss both the challenge ahead and Hull’s work in the summer transfer window.
“Of course, Manchester United are favorites to win, but we will try our best to make it difficult for them. I can’t wait to be involved because I also want to compete with other coaches. Sometimes, we are indeed at a disadvantage, but we are also used to fighting hard in such situations and seizing opportunities on the field.”
Akirovic said the fixture offered Hull an opportunity to measure themselves against some of the most prominent figures in the competition, while acknowledging the scale of the task facing his players.
“It means everything. You can compare yourself with the best teams, the best players, and the best coaches. We are not here just to play this season, but to try our best. Of course, it’s not easy. I’ve seen all sorts of predictions, and we want to prove them wrong, which is a huge motivation in itself.”
The Hull manager also indicated that the club was preparing for different outcomes as it begins the campaign. He said the team would continue working to demonstrate its ability, even if circumstances did not develop as hoped.
“If the situation is not ideal, we have another plan, so we must be prepared for next year and next season. At least we can work hard and show the team’s potential and strength.”
Akirovic called on Hull supporters to provide the same backing they offered last season and promised that his players would continue competing until the final whistle.
“Support us as you did last season, and we will never give up before the end of the game.”
The manager also revealed that Hull expected to make a further three or four signings before the transfer window closes. The club has already recruited several promising young players, although Akirovic said they required additional time to settle into the squad and develop relationships with their new team-mates.
“I expect another three to four new signings. We have signed some players who are all promising young talents, but they need more time to adapt to the team and build chemistry with their teammates. We have completed good pre-season preparations and are about to play official matches. Our recruitment team and chairman (Acun Ilicali) are actively looking for a large number of new players. We still need to fill some positions and also increase internal competition for these positions. I hope to achieve this goal before the window closes.”
Akirovic said Hull’s recruitment team and chairman Acun Ilicali remained active in the market as they sought to strengthen several areas and create greater competition within the squad.
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