Manchester United and Leeds United are set to light up Dublin’s famous Croke Park with a clash for the first time since 2009, as the fierce rivals meet in what promises to be more than just a friendly encounter.
Following a shaky start in July against Wrexham, United has rebounded strongly in pre-season, securing victories against Atletico Madrid and recently holding Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning European champions, to a draw last weekend.
Meanwhile, Leeds have also shown impressive form as they prepare for the Premier League season, notably pulling off a stunning comeback against Liverpool during their U.S. tour, turning a 2-0 deficit into a 4-2 victory in Chicago.
Daniel Farke’s squad will be eager to replicate the success of their last encounter, where they achieved their first league victory at Old Trafford since 1981, hoping for another triumph over their rivals in a venue that encapsulates their storied rivalry.
Here’s what you need to know.
The match between Manchester United and Leeds will kick off at 7:30 PM BST on Wednesday, August 12, at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland.
How can I watch it?
Fans can catch the match live free-to-air on ITV1, with additional coverage available on MUTV for subscribers. The match will also be streamed on ITVX.
Team news
For Manchester United, Youri Tielemans will be on the bench, as Michael Carrick has made several changes from the squad that competed against PSG. Young talents Harry Amass and Tyler Fletcher will start, joined by Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot in defense. New signing Andrey Santos will also be in the starting lineup.
Man United’s Starting XI: Lammens; Dalot, Heaven, Yoro, Amass; Santos, T. Fletcher; Amad, Mbeumo, Dorgu; Zirkzee.
Leeds will see James Trafford make his debut in goal. Players Ao Tanaka, Brenden Aaronson, and Lukas Nmecha have also been included in the lineup after their impressive victory over RB Leipzig.
Leeds’ Starting XI: Trafford; Muharemovic, Chadwick, Bijol; Bogle, Longstaff, Tanaka, Bornauw; Aaronson, Nmecha, James.