Hull City's remarkable start to the season has been built on their ability to adapt to the Premier League without changing their approach. They have averaged 29.4% possession in the Premier League, comfortably the lowest in the division, and have continued to use their long, vertical, direct style of play. This approach has seen them attempt the second-most long passes in the Premier League, with Ryan Giles delivering quick crosses and finding a target man in the box.
The team's defensive solidity has also been a key factor in their success, with Hull not conceding in their first three matches in the Premier League. Manager Sergej Jakirovic has stuck with a 5-4-1 formation, which has seen his players sit in a mid-to-low block, close the gaps between lines, and win the next contact in the box. The team's summer arrivals, including Nobel Mendy, have added to an already physical backline, with a 53.8% ground duel success rate and a 52.3% success rate in aerial duels.
Hull City's group of players has been through plenty together and has forged a tight-knit unit. Eight of the starting XI at Stamford Bridge were part of last season's promotion-winning side, and the team has added Premier League quality and physicality without attempting to replace the group that got them there.