Leeds United and Manchester United have confirmed a highly anticipated pre-season friendly scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025. The match will kick off at 2pm BST (3pm local time) at the Strawberry Arena, the national stadium of Sweden located in Stockholm. This event marks a significant chapter in the history of both clubs, as it will be the first time the teams meet in Sweden, further enhancing the rivalry that has traditionally enthralled fans.
The clash comes as part of Leeds United's pre-season plans for the 2025/26 campaign, with aspirations for the upcoming season already taking shape after their rise to the Premier League. Both sides share an exciting history of encounters in pre-season matches, having previously clashed in front of enthusiastic crowds in Norway during campaigns in 2015 and 2023. Both teams are hopeful that this summer's friendly will be the first of at least three matches between the two rivals before the competitive season kicks off.
Given the magnitude of this fixture, the anticipated demand for tickets has prompted Leeds United to announce ticket availability early. Current season ticket holders and club members can already purchase tickets, while the general sale is set to commence on Friday, March 21, 2025. With the capacity of the Strawberry Arena reaching 50,000, organizers are hopeful for a sell-out crowd, further bolstering the electrifying atmosphere surrounding this historic match.
Morrie Eisenberg, chief operating officer at Leeds United, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the upcoming game, stating, "We are delighted to announce this pre-season fixture with Manchester United, and as a club, we again look forward to playing in Scandinavia. We know the great support we have in Scandinavia, with many supporters regularly travelling to England to see Leeds United play." He highlighted the strong ties the club has established with its fanbase in the region, underscoring that the Leeds United Supporters Club of Scandinavia (LUSCOS) boasts more than 8,000 members, representing a significant segment of the club's passionate following.
The excitement surrounding this fixture is palpable, especially given that Leeds United currently sits comfortably at the top of the Championship. Fans are eager to witness their team face off against Manchester United and the implications it carries for their aspirations upon return to England's top league. With Ruben Amorim at the helm, Manchester United is also shaping its squad for the challenges that lie ahead, making this friendly a crucial part of their pre-season preparations as well. Last summer, United embarked on a pre-season tour that included matches in Norway and Edinburgh before traveling to the United States.
As both teams gear up for their respective future challenges, this match is set to serve as an important test for squad dynamics and tactical strategies amidst the backdrop of historical rivalry. The fixture not only enables fans to enjoy an exciting match but also reinforces the strong connections between the clubs and their supporters, especially in Scandinavia.
This summer’s pre-season friendly promises to be a thrilling encounter that fans will not want to miss. Keep an eye on ticket details and further announcements about additional pre-season fixtures, as Leeds United continues preparing for what promises to be an exhilarating 2025/26 season.
