Want to know how to catch Manchester United's first game of 2026 against Leeds? It's more than just a match; it's about starting the year strong and redeeming that disappointing draw. But can they pull it off at Elland Road? Keep reading to find out how to watch and what to expect!
Leeds v United: Your Ultimate Guide to TV Info, Key Stats & More
By Millie Lumb, Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Manchester United kicks off 2026 with a trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United this Sunday afternoon. It's a rivalry with history, and the Reds will be looking to make a statement.
Remember that sweet 2-0 victory back in February 2023, thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho? Well, Ruben Amorim's squad is eager to build on that legacy and wash away the taste of that recent draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Starting the year with a win against Leeds would be the perfect tonic.
So, what do you need to know before the big game? Let's dive in!
First Look: Amorim's Pre-Match Press Conference
Want the inside scoop? Ruben Amorim's pre-match press conference offers the latest on the squad's condition and hints at potential January transfer moves. Check out the video highlights to get a feel for the manager's mindset heading into this crucial fixture.
How to Watch and Follow Every Second
The match kicks off at 12:30 GMT on Sunday, January 4th, and you can catch all the action live on TNT Sports 1 in the UK.
But that's not the only way to stay connected! As always, MUTV, the United app, and ManUtd.com will provide comprehensive coverage, including team arrivals, confirmed line-ups, real-time match updates, in-game stats, and post-match reactions. Imagine being able to see exactly how many passes Bruno Fernandes is making, or the distance covered by each player, all in real time!
Our commentary team will consist of Liam Bradford and Danny Webber, bringing you play-by-play analysis. Ben Thornley will be our on-site guest at Elland Road, while Phil Bardsley and Quinton Fortune will share their expert insights from the Old Trafford studio.
Missed the live game? Don't worry! Highlights will be available from midnight, and MUTV subscribers can watch the full match replay at the same time. It's the perfect way to dissect every tackle, pass, and goal.
Team News: Who's In, Who's Out?
Here's the injury situation. Unfortunately, the Reds are likely to be without their captain, Bruno Fernandes, as he continues to recover from that hamstring injury sustained against Aston Villa. That's a significant blow to their creative midfield.
Adding to the woes, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo, and Mason Mount have also been sidelined recently with injuries, and Amorim has suggested that none of them are expected to be fit for this match. It's a real test of squad depth for United.
Furthermore, Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui remain unavailable due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.
On the Leeds side, captain Ethan Ampadu will serve a one-match suspension after accumulating his fifth yellow card of the season. That's a tough loss for their defense. Fellow Wales international Joe Rodon will also be absent due to an ankle injury. And former United player Daniel James is unlikely to feature against his old club as he is still recovering from injury. Ouch!
However, Leeds manager Daniel Farke is hoping that Sebastiaan Bornauw and Ilia Gruev will recover from those "cramps" that forced their withdrawal against Liverpool.
Form Guide: Momentum Matters
This match marks the beginning of a busy January for United, with five games on the horizon, including an FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion next Sunday.
Joshua Zirkzee's goal against Wolves was ultimately canceled out, leaving a slightly sour taste. However, prior to that, United delivered an impressive performance to defeat Newcastle United 1-0, with Patrick Dorgu scoring his first goal for the club.
Leeds, on the other hand, are enjoying a six-match unbeaten run since their 3-2 defeat against Manchester City on November 29th. But here's where it gets controversial... some might argue that their recent form has been against weaker opposition. Is their unbeaten streak a true reflection of their current strength, or just a lucky run?
That strong showing at the Etihad Stadium boosted the confidence of the newly promoted side, who then stunned Chelsea 3-1 at Elland Road, followed by draws against Liverpool and Brentford. A convincing 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace was followed by further draws against Sunderland and Liverpool. Remember, Leeds managed a draw on their last visit to Old Trafford in February 2023, coming back from two goals down.
Relive the Action: United v Leeds Highlights
Want a quick reminder of what this rivalry is all about? Check out the two-minute highlights package from the Reds' previous meeting with Leeds. It's a great way to get pumped up for the upcoming clash.
Did You Know? Mind-Blowing Stats
- Manchester United are unbeaten in their last 25 Premier League games against newly promoted sides, since that shocking 4-1 defeat at Watford in November 2021. And this is the part most people miss... This statistic highlights United's dominance against teams coming up from the Championship. But does it guarantee a win against a Leeds side brimming with confidence?
- The Reds have NEVER beaten Leeds in their first league game of a calendar year, drawing 0-0 in 1931, 1-1 in 1958, 0-0 in 1994, and losing 2-1 in 1969. This historical trend certainly adds an extra layer of intrigue to Sunday's match. Can they finally break the curse?
- United will be looking to deny Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has scored in each of his last three Premier League home games. He's never scored in four consecutive matches before, and the last Leeds player to achieve that feat was Mark Viduka back in April 2004. United need to shut him down!
(Stats courtesy of Opta)
Rivals Watch: Keep an Eye on These Games
Saturday, January 3rd, 2026
- Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest (12:30 GMT)
- Brighton v Burnley
- Wolves v West Ham
- Bournemouth v Arsenal (17:30 GMT)
Sunday, January 4th, 2026
- Leeds v UNITED (12:30 GMT)
- Everton v Brentford
- Fulham v Liverpool
- Newcastle v Crystal Palace
- Tottenham v Sunderland
- Manchester City v Chelsea (17:30 GMT)
(All kick-offs at 15:00 GMT, unless stated)
By Millie Lumb, Friday, January 2nd, 2026
So, what are your predictions for the Leeds vs. Man Utd game? Will United's injury woes prove too much to overcome? Or can they break the curse and secure their first win of the year against their rivals? Sound off in the comments below! Let's get the debate started!
