Red Devils and Whites Meet at Strawberry Arena in Season Opener
Manchester United and Leeds United have renewed their historic rivalry in Stockholm today, with the two English giants meeting at the Strawberry Arena on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 15:00 CET (14:00 BST). This pre-season friendly marks the opening fixture of both clubs’ preparations for the 2025/26 campaign and represents a significant moment in their storied rivalry.
Leeds United’s Premier League Return
Leeds United are looking ahead to a Premier League return, having topped the Championship table last term. The Yorkshire club will be competing in England’s top flight for the first time since 2023, when they were relegated after three seasons back among football’s elite. This friendly provides Daniel Farke’s side with an invaluable opportunity to test themselves against quality opposition before their Premier League comeback.
Leeds go into the clash with four new arrivals through the door, as the tie may give fans a chance to see their new signings in action. The encounter offers an exciting test for Farke’s squad as they prepare for what promises to be a challenging return to Premier League football.
Catching up with Ruben on #MUTV 💬
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 19, 2025
Hear from the boss on pre-season, Matheus Cunha and more 👇
Manchester United’s Pre-Season Preparations
For Manchester United, this Stockholm clash represents their first competitive action of the summer. Ruben Amorim’s team finished in 15th place in the previous term, making this pre-season crucial for building momentum ahead of the new campaign. The Red Devils will be eager to demonstrate improvement under their manager’s guidance after last season’s disappointing Europa League runners-up finish.
The fixture provides United with an opportunity to assess their squad depth and tactical preparations against a newly-promoted side that will be desperate to prove their Premier League credentials.
Historic Rivalry Renewed in Sweden
The match will be the first between the two sides in Sweden, with Leeds returning to Scandinavia, following successful pre-season matches over the past decade in Norway in 2015 and 2023. The Strawberry Arena, formerly known as the Friends Arena, provides a neutral venue for this eagerly anticipated encounter between two clubs with a rich history of competitive clashes.
The rivalry between Manchester United and Leeds United is one of English football’s most intense, dating back decades and characterized by passionate encounters both on and off the pitch. This friendly, while pre-season in nature, carries additional significance given Leeds’ return to the Premier League.
Match Accessibility and Coverage
Fans can purchase a match pass for just £4.99, making the encounter accessible to supporters worldwide. The affordable pricing reflects both clubs’ commitment to engaging their global fanbase during the pre-season period.
Live coverage of the match is available through multiple platforms, ensuring supporters who cannot attend in person can follow the action as both teams prepare for the challenges ahead.
Looking Ahead to the 2025/26 Season
This friendly serves as more than just a warm-up fixture. For Leeds United, it represents an opportunity to measure themselves against established Premier League opposition ahead of their top-flight return. For Manchester United, it provides valuable match practice and a chance to build cohesion before the serious business of the new season begins.
Both managers will use this encounter to assess their squads, experiment with formations, and build match fitness ahead of the demanding Premier League campaign that awaits.
Conclusion
The Manchester United vs Leeds United friendly in Stockholm represents a fascinating clash between two clubs at different stages of their respective journeys. With Leeds seeking to establish themselves once again in the Premier League and United aiming to bounce back from recent disappointments, this pre-season encounter promises to be competitive despite its friendly status.
Follow our coverage for live updates, match analysis, and post-game reactions from this historic rivalry renewed in Sweden.