Daniel Farke
(Credit: Hasan Karim)
Henry Green
Wed 16 July 2025 8:30, UK
Leeds are set for a reunion with rivals Manchester United as they prepare for a new campaign in the Premier League.
The Whites face their arch rivals in Stockholm on Saturday in their first pre-season friendly.
Leeds fans will be hoping to see how some of their new faces settle in against Premier League opposition.
There is still plenty of time left in the transfer window and the game will give Daniel Farke a chance to see where still needs improving, with attack a concern after only signing Lukas Nmecha so far.
Gudmundsson Leeds United
Gudmundsson has strengthened Leeds’ back line (Credit: Imago)
Leeds team news
While Leeds have made a strong start to the summer by strengthening their defence, they still lack depth in other areas of the pitch.
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Though it’s expected that some youngsters could be given a run out, it will be a chance for Farke to work out who he wants in his first team.
The Whites are yet to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, and Karl Darlow looks set to start the friendly after taking Illan Meslier’s place in the side towards the end of last season.
New defensive duo Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson are expected to feature in a new look defence.
Willy Gnonto and Brenden Aaronson are late returnees after a summer of international football.
Leeds predicted lineup
Leeds players returned to training last Monday.
Of those who trained, Ethan Ampadu looks set to step back into midfield alongside Ao Tanaka.
Dan James was on fire last season and will look to carry his fine form through pre-season and into the Premier League campaign.
He could be joined by Largie Ramazani, who found his gametime limited last season due to the presence of Manor Solomon and Gnonto.
Up top, Farke could utilise Joel Piroe as a number ten, with Patrick Bamford, who looks set to be given a fresh chance this summer, as a striker.
Leeds predicted 11
Leeds predicted lineup
Prediction: Man United 1-1 Leeds
The Whites are set for a steady first game.
A friendly against Premier League opposition will be a reminder of the toughness of what is to come, especially against fierce rivals.
Though Farke won’t be taking many risks when it comes to playing youngsters next season, 18-year-old defender Coban Bird could be involved for Leeds.
He could be joined by Harry Gray in the squad, with the pair regulars in the under-18s squad last season.
It will give Farke a chance to suss out his side ahead of next season.
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