Manchester United face Leeds United next in the Premier League and Sir Alex Ferguson has already made it clear why this fixture cannot be underestimated.
After a 24-day break between Premier League fixtures, Manchester United resume their 2025/26 campaign by hosting Leeds United at Old Trafford.
The rivalry with Leeds United is a historic one, and the Yorkshire side have the advantage of match rhythm after facing West Ham in the FA Cup quarter-finals last week.
Michael Carrick has some big decisions to make surrounding the Leeds clash, including who should replace the suspended Harry Maguire.
Matheus Cunha celebrates during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road in Leeds, England, in 2026.
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
Sir Alex Ferguson once said the intensity of Man Utd vs Leeds makes Liverpool games look calm. Is he right?
Sir Alex Ferguson on Leeds / graphic
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Sir Alex Ferguson speaks about ‘fierce’ Leeds rivalry
No one knows more about the rivalry between United and Leeds more than legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who oversaw 36 games against the Yorkshire side.
When discussing the atmosphere around United vs Leeds, Ferguson claimed it was actually more fierce than the rivalry against Liverpool.
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“Liverpool-Manchester United games have always been fierce… but it never reaches the levels of Leeds United. I don’t know what it is between Leeds and Manchester United. But it’s not nice,” Ferguson said in 2011.
United will need to be prepared for an intense match against Leeds, and that is why the current training camp in Ireland is essential.
Man Utd icon Sir Alex Ferguson perfectly captures the ethos of believing in youngsters 🔥👏
Giving young people an opportunity is a fantastic thing and they very seldom let you down. These lads never let me down when they put that jersey on.
Sir Alex Ferguson speaking at the opening of Salford City’s Peninsula Stadium in 2017
Sir Alex Ferguson arrives at Old Trafford to watch Manchester United.
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Man Utd must use training camp to prepare for Leeds battle
Matches against Leeds are often very intense, high-octane clashes, so United must be ready to match the energy of Daniel Farke’s side.
A quick start will be essential, so it is important that Carrick’s squad can shake off any rust during their four-day Ireland training camp.
Training in Ireland has been impressive so far, and there appears to be a great mood in the United camp.
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It is up to Carrick and his staff to convert that into a quick start at Old Trafford against Leeds.
Champions League qualification is up for grabs and a win against Leeds on Monday night will put the Red Devils in a fantastic position for the final stretch of the season.
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