Hull City Complete Stunning Premier League Return After McBurnie’s Wembley Heroics

Hull City A.F.C. completed one of the season’s most remarkable stories after a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Oli McBurnie secured a 1–0 victory over Middlesbrough F.C. at Wembley and sealed promotion to the Premier League. For a club that narrowly avoided relegation from the Championship only a year earlier and finished 21st last season, the achievement represents a dramatic turnaround fueled by resilience, smart recruitment, and belief.

The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when McBurnie struck a late winner, sparking emotional celebrations among players, staff, and supporters. Promotion means Hull will now compete in the top flight next season despite entering the campaign under difficult circumstances. The club spent much of the summer operating under a transfer embargo caused by late payments to other clubs, limiting recruitment options to free transfers and loan signings. Even with those restrictions, Hull remained competitive throughout the season and ultimately defeated stronger-fancied opponents in the play-offs.

Jakirovic Rebuilds Reputation and Guides Hull Through Playoff Chaos to Promotion Success

Head coach Sergej Jakirovic played a major role in reshaping the club’s fortunes during his first season in English football. A former Bosnia international with title-winning experience in Croatia and Bosnia, Jakirovic arrived in England seeking to rebuild his reputation after a difficult spell with GNK Dinamo Zagreb ended following a heavy defeat in the Champions League. His move to Hull initially carried uncertainty, but he quickly transformed the squad into a disciplined and resilient unit capable of exceeding expectations.

Hull City Complete Stunning Premier League Return After McBurnie’s Wembley Heroics

Hull’s route to promotion was complicated further by controversy surrounding Southampton’s removal from the play-offs, forcing the club to change preparations just days before the final. Jakirovic described his side as “collateral damage” because of the disruption, yet Hull adapted quickly and delivered under pressure. The Tigers had already shocked many observers by overcoming higher-ranked Millwall F.C. in the semi-finals despite finishing below them in the standings.

Jakirovic Reflects on Emotional Triumph as Hull Celebrates Remarkable Promotion Journey

After the final whistle, an emotional Jakirovic admitted the moment felt surreal, saying McBurnie’s goal made him feel as though he were living inside a movie. He praised the squad for overcoming adversity and described the players as the true driving force behind the club’s success. Despite celebrations planned in Las Vegas for the squad, promised by owner Acun Ilicali, Jakirovic said he would instead spend time with family on the Croatian coast, joking that “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.”

Behind the scenes, head of recruitment Martin Hodge also played a crucial role in assembling the squad. Having joined shortly after Hull narrowly escaped relegation at Fratton Park last season, Hodge admitted he initially questioned what he had walked into. However, key additions such as experienced defender John Egan and match-winner McBurnie strengthened the side significantly.

For Ilicali, promotion marked one of the greatest moments of his life, surpassing even major business achievements. While controversy surrounding “Spygate” and legal threats dominated headlines before the final, victory shifted the mood entirely. Attention will soon turn to preparing for Premier League football, but for now Hull’s remarkable rise from relegation fears to Wembley glory has earned the club a well-deserved celebration.