Manchester United vs Leeds United: Preview, Team News, Time and Score Prediction

Manchester United are set to return to Premier League action after a 24-day hiatus, hosting rivals Leeds United at Old Trafford on Monday night.

The Red Devils, currently third in the table, will look to solidify their Champions League qualification hopes against a Leeds side battling to avoid relegation.

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An unusual break in the schedule, caused by the international window and early cup exits, means Manchester United have not played since their 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on March 20. To maintain sharpness, the squad held a training camp in the Republic of Ireland last week, but questions remain about whether they can hit the ground running after such a long spell without a competitive fixture.

Under the guidance of interim manager Michael Carrick, United have been in strong form, winning seven, drawing two, and losing just one of his 10 matches in charge. This impressive run has put the 44-year-old in a prime position to secure the job permanently. The team sits comfortably in third place, seven points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea, as they aim for a spot in the 2026-27 Champions League.

History is on their side, as the Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 18 home league games against Leeds and have lost just once in their last 20 league encounters overall. However, recent results have been tighter, with Leeds earning draws in two of their last three meetings, including a 2-2 result at Old Trafford in February 2023 and a 1-1 stalemate at Elland Road earlier this season.

For Leeds, the stakes are high. Daniel Farke's team is in 15th place, just three points above the relegation zone, with a record of seven wins, 12 draws, and 12 losses. Their league form has been poor, with their last victory coming against Nottingham Forest in early February. Since then, they have recorded four draws and two losses.

Despite their league struggles, Leeds have found success in the FA Cup, advancing to the semi-finals after a penalty shootout win over West Ham United. They are now set to face Chelsea at Wembley on April 26 for a place in the final. However, their away form in the Premier League is a major concern, having won only one of their 15 matches on the road this season while conceding 28 goals.

Manchester United will be without several key players. Harry Maguire is suspended, while Matthijs de Ligt (back) and Patrick Dorgu (hamstring) are out with injuries. On a positive note, Lisandro Martinez has recovered from a calf issue and is expected to partner Leny Yoro in central defence. The midfield trio of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes are all expected to start.

Forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko both withdrew from international duty but have been declared fit for Monday's clash. Sesko could get the nod to start up front, with Amad Diallo providing an option from the bench.

Leeds also have significant injury concerns. Anton Stach (ankle), Joe Rodon (ankle), and Daniel James (groin) are all confirmed absentees. Additionally, Noah Okafor (back), Jaka Bijol (groin), and Gabriel Gudmundsson (groin) will face late fitness tests.

The Premier League clash will kick off at 10pm (Kenyan time) and will be live on SuperSport TV.

Manchester United Possible XI: Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko

Leeds United Possible XI: Darlow; Bornauw, Struijk, Bijol; Bogle, Aaronson, Ampadu, Tanaka, Justin; Nmecha, Calvert-Lewin

While Leeds have the quality to make this a challenging encounter and are likely to score, Manchester United's excellent form under Michael Carrick should see them through.