Although the Cherries boss welcomes the visit of the Red Devils to the south coast, he insists it’s more important that his players respond in the correct manner.
“Manchester United coming to Bournemouth is fantastic for us,” explained Howe.
“I certainly don’t - and I know that the club do not - take that for granted. We are privileged to play in the Premier League and host everyone in the league, but this will be a special one to start.
“That said, we are not going to be overawed by anything, just as we weren’t last season. The challenge from the players’ perspective is to respond to it all with a positive not negative attitude.”
The world's media will descend upon Vitality Stadium on Sunday, as Paul Pogba returns and Zlatan Ibrahimovic and José Mourinho make their Premier League bows for United.
Howe is well aware of the task his side will face in the pursuit of chalking off a first win of the season.
“Ibrahimovic is a real talent,” continued the manager.
“It’s great to see him here in the Premier League but we won’t be in awe of him, we’ll be trying to keep him quiet.
“Of course he’s a good player but they have quality all over the pitch, from the full backs in Valencia and Shaw up to Ibrahimovic up top, we need to prepare to deal with them all.
“After last year I would say anyone can win league and with the manager that they’ve got of course that will be Manchester United’s aim - I believe it’ll be open with a number of contenders.”
Eddie Howe also gave an injury update ahead of the Cherries' clash with Manchester United, which can be read here.
