Manchester United and Leeds United will renew their Premier League rivalry in Dublin on Wednesday when the two sides meet at Croke Park for a pre-season friendly. Both clubs have enjoyed encouraging preparations ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, making this another important test before competitive action begins.
Leeds have recovered strongly from a 3-2 defeat to Wrexham, recording three consecutive wins over Sunderland, Liverpool and RB Leipzig. Daniel Farke’s side will be looking to maintain that momentum before facing Augsburg and beginning their league campaign against Nottingham Forest.
Manchester United have also impressed after losing their opening friendly to Wrexham. Michael Carrick’s team followed that defeat with wins over Rosenborg and Atletico Madrid before holding European champions PSG to a 1-1 draw. Softfootball understands that United remain focused on finishing pre-season strongly ahead of their league opener against Hull City.
United will also be encouraged by Bryan Mbeumo’s continued goalscoring form, with the forward having struck again in the draw against PSG.
Team News
Leeds could hand new signings Tarik Muharemovic, Harry Wilson and James Trafford starts, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Daniel James are expected to feature. For United, Benjamin Sesko could make his first pre-season appearance, while Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Leny Yoro could return to the starting XI. Manuel Ugarte remains unavailable.
Possible Lineups
Leeds United: Trafford; Muharemovic, Rodon, Bornauw; Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Justin; James, Calvert-Lewin, Wilson.
Manchester United: Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Tielemans, Santos; Amad, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo.
How to Watch
| Detail | Information |
| Match | Manchester United vs Leeds United |
| Competition | Pre-season friendly |
| Venue | Croke Park, Dublin |
| Date | Wednesday |
| Kick-off | Check local listings |
| Coverage | Club and broadcast channels |
Prediction
A competitive encounter is expected, but United’s stronger recent results could give them the edge.
Prediction: Leeds United 1-2 Manchester United
