Leeds United welcome Manchester United to Elland Road on Sunday for a high-stakes Pennines derby.
The Whites enter 2026 with significant momentum after a resilient 0-0 draw at Anfield on New Year’s Day. Consequently, Daniel Farke’s men now boast a stunning six-game unbeaten run. This streak has moved the hosts seven points clear of the relegation zone. However, Leeds have historically struggled against their rivals. They are currently winless in this fixture since 2002.
Manchester United arrive under intense pressure after a tepid 1-1 home draw against Wolves. Ruben Amorim’s side currently sits sixth in the table. While they remain near the Champions League places, inconsistencies continue to plague the Red Devils. Notably, United have been lethal against promoted sides recently. They are unbeaten in their last 25 such matches. Therefore, this clash offers a vital chance for Amorim to restore confidence before a difficult January schedule.
Leeds United vs Manchester United – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Sunday, 4 January 2026
- Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
- Venue: Elland Road, Leeds
- Referee: Jarred Gillett
- VAR: James Bell
- Last Meeting: Manchester United 0-0 Leeds, 19 July 2025
Team News
Leeds United
Daniel Farke must navigate a defensive crisis because of suspensions and injuries. Captain Ethan Ampadu is unavailable after picking up his fifth yellow card against Liverpool. Additionally, centre-back Joe Rodon remains sidelined with an ankle injury. Sean Longstaff and Daniel James are also ruled out. On a positive note, Farke hopes Sebastiaan Bornauw and Ilia Gruev will be fit. Both players suffered only minor cramps during the midweek battle at Anfield.
Manchester United
Ruben Amorim confirmed that eight senior players will miss the trip to Yorkshire. Captain Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo remain unavailable due to hamstring and calf issues. Furthermore, Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire are still out with back and thigh problems. The squad is further depleted by the Africa Cup of Nations. Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui are all away on international duty. Joshua Zirkzee and Matheus Cunha are expected to lead the attack.
Form
Leeds United
The Whites have turned Elland Road into a genuine fortress. They have secured 15 of their 21 points on home soil this season. Specifically, Leeds have netted at least three goals in each of their last three home matches. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is currently in peak form. He has scored seven goals in his last six league outings. Now, he aims to become the first Leeds player since 2004 to score in four consecutive home games.
Manchester United
United’s defensive fragility away from home remains a major concern. They have conceded at least once in each of their last 14 away games. Furthermore, the Red Devils have struggled to maintain leads recently. They have already dropped 12 points from winning positions this season. However, summer signings Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha have provided consistent attacking threats. Amorim will rely on their clinical finishing to exploit a depleted Leeds backline.
Predicted Lineups
Leeds United predicted XI: Perri; Bogle, Bijol, Struijk; Justin, Stach, Aaronson, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Okafor
Manchester United predicted XI: Lammens; Dalot, Heaven, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Ugarte; Dorgu, Zirkzee, Cunha; Sesko
How to watch Leeds United vs Manchester United?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Coverage begins at 11:00 GMT on Sunday.
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