Battle of the Roses: Manchester United vs Leeds United Showdown – Where to Watch and Kick-off Time

Manchester United vs Leeds United Pre-Season Friendly: A Battle of the Roses Showdown

Overview

Manchester United and Leeds United are set to face off in a highly anticipated pre-season friendly match on July 12, 2023. This Battle of the Roses showdown will take place at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo, Norway. While it may be a friendly match, the rivalry between these two historic English clubs adds an extra level of excitement for fans.

Form and Expectations

Last season, Manchester United, under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag, had a mixed campaign. Despite a slow start, they managed to secure Champions League football and claim the Carabao Cup. However, their FA Cup run ended in disappointment as they finished as runners-up to rivals Manchester City. The Europa League quarter-final loss to Sevilla further highlighted their shortcomings.

On the other hand, Leeds United returned to the Championship after spending three seasons in the Premier League. With new head coach Daniel Farke at the helm, they will be looking to regain their top-flight status. This pre-season friendly against Manchester United will provide an early test for their squad and an opportunity to assess their strengths and weaknesses.

Team News

Mason Mount is expected to make his first appearance in Manchester United colors, joining Lisandro Martinez and Donny van de Beek, who have recovered from previous injuries. Internationals such as Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen are set to join training. The friendly could also feature promising young players such as Amad Diallo, Shola Shoretire, Alvaro Fernandez, and Hannibal Mejbri.

Following David de Gea’s departure, Dean Henderson may seek a permanent transfer elsewhere. Tom Heaton, Nathan Bishop, and Matej Kovar have been named as the goalkeepers for the Oslo trip. The possible starting XI for Manchester United could include Heaton, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Fernandez, Mount, Fred, Mainoo, Antony, Martial, and Amad.

Leeds United, on the other hand, will be without Tyler Adams and Jack Harrison due to their rehabilitation in the UK. Stuart Dallas and Luis Sinisterra are facing long-term injury issues. The lineup for Leeds United may feature Van den Heuvel, Drameh, Ayling, Cooper, Struijk, Rutter, Gyabi, Shackleton, Greenwood, Bamford, and Gelhardt.

Head-to-Head Record

• February 12, 2023: Leeds 0-2 Man Utd, Premier League
• February 9, 2023: Man Utd 2-2 Leeds, Premier League
• February 20, 2022: Leeds 2-4 Man Utd, Premier League
• August 14, 2021: Man Utd 5-1 Leeds, Premier League
• April 25, 2021: Leeds 0-0 Man Utd, Premier League

Based on recent encounters, Manchester United have had the upper hand against Leeds United. However, it is important to note that pre-season friendlies often have a different dynamic, with managers experimenting with lineups and tactics.

How to Watch

The match will not be broadcast live on TV, but can be streamed online through MUTV. For live updates and commentary, fans can also follow GOAL’s Live Match Center.

Advice for Fans

For fans who cannot watch the match live, following the updates on social media platforms and sports news websites will provide real-time information about the game. Additionally, highlights and post-match analysis will be available after the match.

Editorial – The Significance of Pre-Season Friendlies

Pre-season friendlies are an essential part of a football club’s preparation for the upcoming season. They provide an opportunity for players to regain match fitness, foster team cohesion, and experiment with tactics. Although the results may not hold much significance, the intensity and competitiveness of these matches can still reveal valuable insights for managers.

In the case of Manchester United and Leeds United, this pre-season friendly allows both teams to gauge their current form and assess their squad’s strengths and weaknesses before the start of the new season. Furthermore, it serves as a chance for fans to witness the renewed rivalry between these two iconic clubs.

As the teams take to the pitch in Oslo, the Battle of the Roses will continue, evoking memories of the historic encounters between Manchester United and Leeds United. In the end, the result may not matter as much as the performance and lessons learned from this exhibition match.