Hull City fans directed taunts at former England player Joe Cole during their Premier League match against Manchester United on August 22, 2026. Supporters chanted "are you watching, Joe Cole?" as the newly promoted club took a two-goal lead against Michael Carrick's side before halftime.
Cole had drawn criticism for comments made on The Dressing Room podcast in the build-up to the season, where he appeared to dismiss Hull City's chances of remaining in the Premier League. He stated "Hull are gone, man" and suggested they had entered the top flight "through the back door."
Cole also made a claim that TNT Sports had assigned him to cover the Hull City vs. Manchester United match and that he intentionally avoided the assignment by putting his phone on Do Not Disturb. However, Daily Mail Sport exclusively revealed that Cole was never scheduled to cover the game.
Fans have expressed their disapproval on social media, with some calling Cole's attitude "condescending" and "disrespectful," and suggesting he should be banned from the club's stadium. Hull City owner Acun Ilicali responded to Cole's remarks on social media, expressing disappointment and stating that the club is accustomed to being underestimated. "The true beauty of a place is in its people, and that’s why, for me, Hull is one of the most beautiful places in the world," Ilicali wrote. "For me, seeing two ex-players making fun of a deservedly promoted club, is more laughable than the things they were laughing at."
Hull City, who were tipped by some to be relegated from the Championship last season, have invested approximately £76 million in 11 new players since their promotion. Despite the significant spending, they started against Manchester United with eight players who were part of the team last season.
Sources indicate that Hull City players and staff are aware of Cole's comments and intend to use them as motivation. The team may also draw inspiration from Sunderland's performance last season, when they qualified for European football in their first year back in the Premier League.