Image Source: Sports Illustrated
Man United vs Leeds brings one of English soccer’s fiercest rivalries to Dublin on Wednesday, Aug. 12, as both clubs continue preparations for the 2026–27 campaign. Croke Park will host the penultimate preseason fixture of the summer for Manchester United, with Leeds United looking to extend their impressive run of form.
The fixture carries plenty of history despite its preseason setting. The rivalry between the Lancashire and Yorkshire clubs dates back centuries, and recent meetings have added fresh tension. Manchester United failed to defeat Leeds last season, drawing 1–1 at Elland Road before suffering a damaging defeat at Old Trafford.
Man United vs Leeds Prediction: A Dramatic Draw Expected
Sports Illustrated’s prediction is a 1–1 draw, with little expected to separate the longtime rivals in Dublin. Leeds have beaten Manchester United only three times in the 21st century, but their recent progress under Daniel Farke has made them a much more difficult opponent.
Leeds endured a difficult first half of last season but recovered strongly after Farke changed the team’s shape to a back-three system. The tactical adjustment helped the club move away from relegation danger and finish 14th, eight points clear of the bottom three.
The Whites have carried that momentum into the summer. Leeds have won three consecutive matches against top-flight opposition, including a confident 2–0 victory over RB Leipzig. Their defensive organization has also stood out, with two preseason clean sheets.
Manchester United have shown more inconsistency. The Red Devils were held to a 1–1 draw by Paris Saint-Germain in their previous outing, although several players are still building fitness after returning from international duty. With both teams still experimenting, another closely fought contest appears likely.
Prediction: Manchester United 1–1 Leeds United.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Leeds
Michael Carrick has almost a full group of players available, although Manchester United are monitoring several fitness issues. Marcus Rashford could make his first appearance for the club in 19 months after spending last season on loan at Barcelona.
Rashford returned to Manchester after Barcelona decided not to complete a permanent deal for the England international. His possible return will be one of the major talking points before kickoff.
Lisandro Martínez is also expected to feature after returning from the World Cup with Argentina. He suffered a suspected thigh injury against Spain but is believed to be on course to be fit for the start of the new season.
Mason Mount is a fresh concern after suffering a foot injury against Paris Saint-Germain. Senne Lammens should be available after recovering from illness, while Tom Heaton is expected to miss the match with a hamstring problem.
Manchester United predicted lineup
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens
- Defense: Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw
- Midfield: Youri Tielemans, Carlos Santos
- Attacking midfield: Amad, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu
- Forward: Bryan Mbeumo
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Manchester United
Leeds will be without Gabriel Gudmundsson after Daniel Farke confirmed that the wing-back could miss around three weeks with a hamstring injury. His absence is expected to affect the club during the opening weeks of the new campaign.
Ilia Gruev remains sidelined after a knee problem kept him out since April. Goalkeeper Lucas Perri is expected to complete a loan move to Torino, leaving new signing James Trafford in line to make his unofficial Leeds debut in Dublin.
Jaka Bijol is back in contention, while Noah Okafor may be introduced gradually after receiving additional time off following the World Cup.
Leeds predicted lineup
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: James Trafford
- Defense: Anton Muharemović, Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol
- Midfield: Jayden Bogle, Ethan Ampadu, Anton Stach, Wilfried Gnonto
- Attack: Daniel James, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Callum Wilson
Kickoff Time and How to Watch Man United vs Leeds
The preseason friendly will take place at Croke Park in Dublin. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. BST, 2:30 p.m. ET and 11:30 a.m. PT on Wednesday, Aug. 12.
- United States: CBS Sports Golazo and Paramount+
- United Kingdom: MUTV, ITV 1, ITVX, STV Scotland, Premier Sports Player, Premier Sports 2 and STV Player
- Mexico: Claro Sports
The match offers both teams an important final opportunity to sharpen their systems, assess returning players and build confidence before competitive soccer begins. For supporters, the historic rivalry ensures that even a friendly fixture should carry plenty of intensity.
FAQs About Man United vs Leeds
When is Man United vs Leeds?
Manchester United and Leeds United meet on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026.
Where will the match be played?
The preseason friendly will be held at Croke Park in Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
What time does Man United vs Leeds kick off?
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. BST, 2:30 p.m. ET and 11:30 a.m. PT.
What is the prediction for the match?
The predicted score is Manchester United 1–1 Leeds United.
Could Marcus Rashford play?
Rashford could make his first Manchester United appearance in 19 months after returning from a loan spell at Barcelona.
