As the clock began to bleed, neither side looked particularly interested in giving the other an easy route to goal.
United circulated the ball across the back, leaving Wigan pressing in short bursts.
Both sides played as the midfield battle threatened to become the game's defining feature.
From the stands, the supporters watched the two sides feel each other out, waiting for someone to take the first real risk.
"It's been a cautious start here at the DW Stadium," Steve Bower observed.
"Neither side has managed to fashion a clear opportunity in these opening minutes."
"Not for lack of quality in midfield," Darren Fletcher replied.
"Look at the players in there. Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro against Leo Calderon, Reyes and Tiehi. That's a contest in itself.
The trouble is, the rest of the players are almost spectators at the moment. Whoever wins that battle could dictate the game."
