Date: July 19, 2025
Venue: Strawberry Arena, Solna, Sweden
Final Score: Manchester United 0 – 0 Leeds United
Attendance: 45,345
⚔️ A Rivalry Rekindled: The Roses Derby Abroad
Few fixtures in English football carry as much history and intensity as the Roses Derby—Manchester United vs Leeds United. On July 19, 2025, the fierce rivals reignited their long-standing feud, this time on neutral turf in Sweden. While it may have been labeled a “friendly”, the energy on the pitch and in the stands told a different story.
Despite the absence of goals, the match offered plenty for fans and analysts to chew on.
🔴 Manchester United: Promising Signs, But Work To Do
United fielded a mix of experienced heads and emerging talent. Casemiro, as expected, controlled the midfield with authority, nearly giving United the lead with a thunderous strike that ricocheted off the crossbar in the first half.
Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated debut was that of Matheus Cunha, the Brazilian forward recently signed from Wolves. Starting on the left, Cunha showed flashes of flair but struggled to impose himself and was replaced at halftime. Leon King, another summer signing, also featured in the backline and looked composed.
United’s brightest prospect of the match, however, was Kobbie Mainoo, whose late header also found the woodwork—an unlucky night, but one that highlights his growing importance under Erik ten Hag.
Tom Heaton, the 39-year-old veteran keeper, was rock solid and arguably United’s best performer. He pulled off multiple key saves, ensuring the clean sheet stayed intact.
⚪ Leeds United: Grit and Determination from the Newly Promoted Side
Fresh off their promotion back to the Premier League, Leeds United came into this match with a point to prove. And prove it they did.
Despite being underdogs on paper, Daniel Farke’s side looked sharp, energetic, and very much Premier League-ready. Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto were livewires down the wings, consistently testing United’s full-backs.
In midfield, Archie Gray—just 19 years old—put in a mature performance, showing confidence and vision against world-class opposition. Defensively, Leeds looked solid, with Pascal Struijk marshalling the backline and goalkeeper Illan Meslier staying alert throughout.
📊 Match Stats Snapshot:
| Category | Man United | Leeds United |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 57% | 43% |
| Shots (on target) | 12 (4) | 9 (3) |
| Crossbars Hit | 2 | 0 |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls | 8 | 10 |
🗣️ Manager Reactions
Erik ten Hag:
“We had good control and created chances, but our finishing was off. It’s early days, and this match showed where we need to improve—especially in converting opportunities.”
Daniel Farke:
“I’m proud of the boys. We stood toe-to-toe with a top side and showed our identity. It’s a very positive start to our preseason.”
✈️ What’s Next?
- Manchester United now head to the USA where they will face West Ham United and Club América as part of their summer tour. The focus will be on blending new signings and sharpening finishing.
- Leeds United return home to prepare for friendlies against Villarreal and Sheffield Wednesday before their Premier League opener next month.
📷 Special Moment: Hollywood Star in the Stands
In a surprise twist, actor and part-owner of Leeds United Will Ferrell was spotted cheering his side from the stands. Ferrell, known for his passionate support of football, was seen applauding the team’s gritty performance and even signed autographs for fans at halftime.
📌 Final Takeaway
The 0-0 scoreline doesn’t tell the full story. For Manchester United, it was a showcase of potential and places for refinement. For Leeds United, it was a bold statement ahead of their Premier League return. Both sets of fans should feel optimistic—but aware that there’s still plenty of work ahead before the season begins.
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