After a 24-day break, Manchester United return to Premier League action on Monday night, hosting Leeds United at Old Trafford. It has been a long wait for the Red Devils, whose last outing came in a 2-2 draw with AFC Bournemouth, with the international break and lack of European or FA Cup commitments extending their time off the pitch.
Despite that pause, United remain in a strong position in the table. Michael Carrick’s side sit third, seven points clear of Chelsea in sixth, and firmly on course to secure a return to the Champions League next season. Carrick has made an impressive start to life in charge, overseeing seven wins, two draws and just one defeat from his opening 10 matches.
Preparations for the return have included a training camp in the Republic of Ireland, though there will naturally be some focus on how quickly United can rediscover their match sharpness. History also favours the hosts in this fixture, with United unbeaten in their last 18 home league games against Leeds and losing just once in the last 20 meetings overall.
For Daniel Farke and his Leeds side, the picture looks very different. They head to Manchester sitting 15th in the table, just three points above the relegation zone, with a record of seven wins, 12 draws and 12 defeats from 31 games. There have been signs of resilience in recent meetings between the sides, including draws at Old Trafford in 2023 and at Elland Road earlier this season.
Leeds do at least have some momentum in cup competition, having reached the FA Cup semi-finals after beating West Ham United on penalties, setting up a Wembley clash with Chelsea. However, their league form remains a concern, with draws against Crystal Palace and Brentford extending a winless run that dates back to early February, while just one victory from 15 away matches underlines the scale of the challenge they face.
Manchester United
Manchester United will be without Matthijs de Ligt, Patrick Dorgu and Harry Maguire, with injury and suspension limiting their defensive options, although Lisandro Martínez has recovered and is set to return.
Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko are both available despite withdrawing from international duty, with the latter pushing to start up front, while Amad Diallo could feature from the bench. Martinez is expected to partner Leny Yoro in defence, with Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo set to anchor the midfield.
Leeds United
For Leeds United, Anton Stach, Joe Rodon and Daniel James are all ruled out through injury, dealing a blow ahead of the trip to Old Trafford.
There are also doubts over Noah Okafor, Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson, who will all need late fitness checks before a final decision is made. Ao Tanaka is pushing for a start after impressing in the FA Cup, while Brenden Aaronson and Dominic Calvert-Lewin are both expected to return to the XI.
Likely Line-Ups
Manchester United (4-2-3-1)
Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Diallo, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo
Leeds United (3-5-2)
Darlow; Bornauw, Struijk, Bijol; Bogle, Aaronson, Ampadu, Gruev, Justin; Nmecha, Calvert-Lewin
Key Players
Manchester United - Bruno Fernandes
The Portuguese's importance for Manchester United remains critically high, especially in the midst of being the spearhead of a side in transition under Michael Carrick.
The 31-year-old currently sits on eight goals and 16 assists in the Premier League this season - with six goal contributions in his last five league games. It shouldn't need much explaining as to why and how Fernandes will be at the forefront of Red Devils' attacks against Farke's men.
The question is - will Leeds be able to stop him?
Leeds United - Ethan Ampadu
While Dominic Calvert-Lewin's importance for Farke's side remains crucial, Ethan Ampadu's presence also cannot be understated. The Welshman has remained a consistent cog at the heart of the Whites' midfield this season, dominating in duels and often praised for his simplicity on the ball.
The midfield battle will be a fascinating one on Monday night, especially considering United's struggle to find balance. If the visitors can get a sustained foothold in midfield, then it'd certainly improve their chances of an away upset.
Match details
Where is the game being played?
The match is to be played at Old Trafford, home of Manchester United.
What time is kick-off?
Kick off is at 20:00 GMT on Monday, 13 April.
How can I watch?
Viewers will be able to watch the match live on Sky Sports Main Event / Sky Sports Premier League channels.