The highly anticipated Premier League clash between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road is set to proceed on January 4, 2026, despite weather alerts causing postponements elsewhere in the UK. As the two sides renew one of English football's most intense rivalries, both teams have a lot to play for.
Manchester United, managed by Ruben Amorim, aims to kick off 2026 on a positive note after a disappointing draw against Wolves to end the previous year. They currently sit sixth in the Premier League and could potentially move into the top four with a victory, depending on other match results. However, Amorim has alluded to internal friction regarding transfer strategies, adding pressure to secure a positive result and build momentum. United has struggled with consistency and needs to improve after a lackluster 0-0 draw against Wolves. Amorim still faces challenges with player availability, as several key players remain sidelined.
Leeds United, under Daniel Farke, is looking to capitalize on their strong form, as they are currently unbeaten in six games. Their confidence is high after holding Liverpool to a draw at Anfield on New Year's Day. Farke hopes Ilia Gruev and Sebastiaan Bornauw will be available after their impressive performance against Liverpool. Leeds will be without Ethan Ampadu due to a one-match ban, while Daniel James, Sean Longstaff, and Joe Rodon remain unavailable. Leeds is aiming for their first home win against Manchester United in the Premier League since 2002.
Historically, Manchester United dominates the head-to-head record, but Leeds will be hoping to improve on their recent form. Leeds has only won one of their last 19 Premier League matches against Manchester United, with that win coming in September 2002. Manchester United are aiming for their third consecutive away league win against Leeds.
Team News
Daniel Farke has made two changes to the Leeds United side that drew with Liverpool, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor returning to the starting lineup.
The Leeds United starting XI is: Perri (GK), Gudmundsson, Struijk (C), Calvert-Lewin, Aaronson, Bijol, Stach, Okafor, Bornauw, Justin, Gruev.
The substitutes are: Darlow (GK), Longstaff, Piroe, Nmecha, Harrison, Tanaka, Byram, Gnonto, Chambers.
The match kicks off at 12:30 PM GMT and will be televised on TNT Sports in the UK.
