“Leeds United coming back to the Prem means Manchester United is already 6 points safe from relegation next season haha.” – KobbieEra on X
That's funny. And that's how it is when Leeds and Manchester United meet. This isn't just a match. It's history, hate, and jokes flying before the ball is even kicked
The new season is coming, and for Manchester United, it can’t come fast enough. After their worst league finish since 1990, the pressure is already on Ruben Amorim. Leeds? They’re back in the big time and full of energy.It’s just pre-season. But with new signings and bragging rights on the line, don’t expect this to feel like a friendly.
Man United vs Leeds Key Stats
Head-to-head: Man United (50 wins), Leeds (37 wins), Draws (26)
Man United scored 1.2 goals per game in the Premier League last season
Leeds scored 2.1 goals per game in the Championship
Man United averaged 4.6 shots on target per match
Leeds had 5.7 shots on target per game
United had 10 clean sheets in 38 matches
- Leeds kept 25 clean sheets in 46 matches
What to Expect From Both Teams
Manchester United are starting over. No Europe. No excuses. Ruben Amorim is trying to build a team that plays with more control and confidence. Expect a mix of first-team stars and young faces in this one. New signings Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon should make their debuts. Fernandes will likely start, while Zirkzee and Amad could lead the line.
The defence is a concern. Onana is out. Lisandro is still recovering. Amorim might rotate the squad with a different XI in each half. But the pressure to impress is already here.
Leeds United are buzzing after winning the Championship with 100 points. Daniel Farke has brought in four new faces this summer: Bijol, Gudmundsson, Bornauw, and Nmecha. Daniel James gets a reunion with his old club. Leeds play with the ball, they press high, and they score plenty.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United (3-4-3) 🔴;
Bayindir; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Yoro; Dalot, Casimero, Fernandes, Dorgu; Cunha, Zirkzee, Amad
Leeds United (4-2-3-1) ⚪;
Meslier; Bogle, Bijol, Ampadu, Gudmundsson; Gruev, Tanaka; Gnonto, Aaronson, James; Piroe
Players and Matchups to Watch
Cunha’s first minutes: Can he show United fans what’s to come?
Bruno Fernandes vs Tanaka in midfield: Two masterminds pulling the strings, both set the tempo and create chances. Who takes control?
Daniel James vs old club: You know he’ll want to score
Piroe’s finishing: Quiet in patches but deadly in the box
Set pieces & wings: Leeds love width, United’s fullbacks will be tested
Odds Market on MSport
💵 Leeds to win: 3.50
💵 Over 2.5 goals: 1.52
It’s just the first friendly, but for both teams, it’s more than that.
For Man United, it’s about turning the page.
For Leeds, it’s about showing they belong at the top.
For fans, it’s a rivalry that never really feels friendly.
Welcome back, football.
