Leeds took a huge step towards Premier League survival as they stunned 10-man Manchester United in their first league win at Old Trafford since 1981.
Daniel Farke’s side looked rampant from the outset against their fierce rivals and took the lead inside five minutes, with Noah Okafor slotting past Senne Lammens to send the travelling away fans into raptures.
It was Okafor again as Leeds deservedly doubled their lead approaching the break, seeing his volley fortuitously deflect off Leny Yoro and nestle into the United net to put the visitors in a commanding position at half-time.
Things went from bad to worse for United when a returning Lisandro Martinez was controversially sent off before the hour-mark for a hair-pull on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and despite Casemiro halving the deficit 13 minutes later, Michael Carrick’s side were unable to salvage a result as Leeds leapt six points clear of the drop zone.
Follow all the latest updates from Old Trafford in our live blog below.
Man United vs Leeds LIVE
- Man United stunned by arch-rivals Leeds in Premier League
- Leeds win at Old Trafford for first time in league since 1981 to go six points clear of relegation
- Controversy as Lisandro Martinez sent off for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin's hair
- Michael Carrick branded Martinez's sending off as 'one of the worst I've ever seen'
Leeds make history in rare Old Trafford win but the real loser isn’t Man Utd
08:00 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordA terrible night for a relegation-threatened team who play in white. Although that team, admittedly, is Tottenham Hotspur. For Leeds United, this was a seminal, spectacular evening; a historic one, too, though even the significance of a first league win at Old Trafford since 1981 felt less immediate that the growing probability they will stay up.
But for Michael Carrick and Manchester United, even a rousing attempt at a rescue act could not alter the combination of a wretched first half and a dreadful result. It was compounded by the consequences, with Lisandro Martinez’s comeback short-lived as he was sent off for grabbing Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair. Just when it seemed they were certainties to qualify for the Champions League, Manchester United contrived to inject an element of doubt. Carrick lost his 100 percent record at Old Trafford as United manager. The danger is the favourite to become the permanent manager loses rather more than that.
Carrick was an unused substitute for Leeds’ previous win at Old Trafford in 2010. This, however, was a first league victory on enemy turf in 45 years and Noah Okafor can now join Brian Flynn in Leeds folklore. The summer signing’s volleyed double was his first brace for Leeds. The goals came in a pair for this particular Noah, perhaps changing the arc of each United’s fortunes.
Leeds make history in rare Old Trafford win but the real loser isn’t Man Utd
Pundits slam controversial Lisandro Martinez red card after hair pull in Man Utd loss
07:00 , Will CastlePundits have questioned the controversial decision to send Lisandro Martinez off for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair during Manchester United’s dismal Premier League defeat to rivals Leeds.
"I can see it from both sides and when you class it as violent conduct, it feels really harsh,” Roy Keane said on Sky Sports.
"But we've seen other players getting sent off. It is harsh but if that's the laws of the game, then you have to accept it."
Jamie Carragher then debated whether any fan at home would have watched the incident in real time and thought it was a sending off.
"He's going for the ball and he's almost grappling. He's trying to grab onto something and he's caught the back of his hair - it could've been his hair or anything,” Carragher said. "He's got him for about half a second.
“We hear from Howard Webb and he says 'what does the game want?'
"I don't think any football fan, manager or player is thinking 'that's a red card'.
"Everybody is looking at that and thinking 'oh come on, that is not a red card, behave yourself'."
Pundits slam controversial Martinez red card after hair pull in Man Utd loss
Michael Carrick: Lisandro Martinez hair-pull red card ‘one of worst I’ve ever seen’
06:00 , Richard JollyMichael Carrick slammed the decision to send Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez off for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair as “shocking” and “one of the worst” he had ever seen.
He said: "I thought the boys stayed positive and fought for everything in the second half, after a shocking decision to send Licha [Martinez] off. That's two games in a row we've had those decisions go against us, but that one was one of the worst I've seen.
“The red card, that is really concerning. I know he touched his hair. There is a difference to really aggressively touching it. The arm in the face of Lisandro and he is off balance and grappling. He goes to touch his shirt and gets a red card for it.”
Carrick: Martinez red card decision ‘one of worst I’ve ever seen’
Premier League relegation battle: What does Leeds' run-in look like now?
05:00 , Will CastlePosition: 15th | Played: 32 | Points: 36 | GD: -10
Remaining fixtures:
- 18 April - Wolves (H)
- 25 April - Bournemouth (A)
- 2 May - Burnley (H)
- 9 May - Tottenham (A)
- 17 May - Brighton (H)
- 24 May - West Ham (A)
Where to pick up points? The fixtures have fallen fairly kindly for Leeds and after their seminal win over Manchester United - a first league victory at Old Trafford since 1981 - it now looks probable that they will secure Premier League football next season. Two more wins would definitely be enough to survive and one may well do it, so they’ll be eyeing up home fixtures against the current bottom two – Wolves and Burnley – to get over the line. Away games against relegation rivals Tottenham and West Ham also look like prime opportunities to get results on the board.
Tricky contests? They’ve passed their toughest test on paper with flying colours by beating United, which was their last game against a team currently above 10th in the standings. Nevertheless, a trip to Bournemouth in April and hosting European football-chasing Brighton in their penultimate fixture won’t be easy. Will an FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham straight after the international break prove to be a welcome distraction or a hindrance?
Final straight? Leeds will be desperate to have secured safety by the time they travel to West Ham on the final day but if not, that could be a high-octane shootout for survival. Games against Brighton and Spurs immediately preceding that are too unfriendly as finales go.
Fernandes stays tight-lipped on Martinez red card to stay out of 'big trouble'
04:00 , Will Castle"I'm not talking about the referee,” Fernandes told Sky Sports. “If I talk about the referee I'm going to get in very big trouble because the rules are applied differently for everyone.
“You can see it also in the yellow cards. It's better that I don't say anything."
Carrick laments Man Utd's slow start
03:00 , Will Castle"We didn't start the game particularly well,” he told Sky Sports. We conceded, which came after Leny Yoro got a forearm smash in the back of his head.
"They didn't decide to overturn that, which was a big moment in the game. We didn't quite have the rhythm, we didn't click. We had some moments but it wasn't there for large parts of the half.
"Sometimes you don't have good spells in games, other times you do. We know we can be better and do things better.
"We'll look at that. But the way we played second half, and could've got something out of the game in the second half, I'm pleased the way we went into that."
Neville gives verdict on shock Man Utd defeat
02:00 , Will Castle"It's a monumental night for Leeds,” Neville said on Sky Sports. “He'll [Farke] have been nervous about the fact Leeds were perilously close to the relegation zone but this win goes a long way towards securing survival.
"It's the most disappointing night for Michael Carrick since he took over. They'll have to recover quickly with Chelsea coming up on Saturday. They never got going.
"Leeds fully deserved it over the course of the 90 minutes. They were the better team."
Calvert-Lewin 'just doing job' for goal-line clearance
01:00 , Will Castle"I was just in the moment, switched on and engaged and waiting for the ball to come in and do my job,” he told Sky Sports.
"Thankfully, I was there this time to clear the ball off the line and make up for the ones I should have put away at the other end."
Farke: 'We have to stay humble'
00:00 , Will Castle"We should have been more than 2-0 up in the first half, if I'm honest,” he said.
"Sometimes a red card can change something. We fell asleep at one set-piece and then it's more the Man Utd way and it's difficult to bring it over the line as a newly promoted side.
"To get a first win here in whatever it is, 40 years, is amazing and of course a big step forward.
"We have to stay humble. We are not perfect, we are sometimes there with a mistake, we are not the finished product but we are on the way to achieve something really positive this season."
Match-winner Okafor gives post-match thoughts
23:45 , Will Castle"I think I can score and help the team. For this, I'm really happy and proud, but in the end, I have to say to everyone that is with us a big compliment. We fought until the end and deserved the three points,” he told Sky Sports.
"I think I hit it well (for his second goal). I try because if you don't try, the ball can't go in.
"This brought us even more to the game and we knew we had to defend as a team. We did it well so we're really excited and happy."
Calvert-Lewin on Martinez red: 'I don't make the rules'
23:30 , Will Castle"I don't make the rules at the end of the day,” Calvert-Lewin said. “I thought my hair got pulled, I told the ref and he's the one that makes the decisions.
"Unfortunate for him. Whether he meant it or not, I don't hold grudges, but it is what it is."
Farke speaks on relegation battle after huge survival boost
23:15 , Will Castle"It gives us confidence,” he told Sky Sports. “A win is always good for that, and for the table.
"But performance-wise we should be on far more than 40 points.
"We have performed with unbelievable consistency, but we can be more effective in both boxes.
"For that, the reality is we are on 36 points and we need a few more points.
"Tonight we are three points closer but nothing is achieved yet, we have to stay humble, grounded, hungry and make sure we are ready for the upcoming games to win as many points as possible."
Keane and Carragher give verdict on Martinez hair-pull
23:00 , Will Castle"I can see it from both sides and when you class it as violent conduct, it feels really harsh,” Roy Keane said on Sky Sports.
"But we've seen other players getting sent off. It is harsh but if that's the laws of the game, then you have to accept it."
Jamie Carragher then added: "He's going for the ball and he's almost grappling. He's trying to grab onto something and he's caught the back of his hair - it could've been his hair or anything. He's got him for about half a second.
"We hear from Howard Webb and he says 'what does the game want?' I don't think any football fan, manager or player is thinking 'that's a red card'.
"Everybody is looking at that and thinking 'oh come on, that is not a red card, behave yourself'."
Lisandro Martínez has been sent off for violent conduct 🟥 pic.twitter.com/TFGLTZUiTB
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 13, 2026
Carrick: Martinez red 'one of the worst I've ever seen'
22:45 , Will CastleMichael Carrick has absolutely ripped into the decision to send Lisandro Martinez off for a shirt-pull in Man United’s defeat to Leeds.
"I thought the boys stayed positive and fought for everything in the second half, after a shocking decision to send Licha [Martinez] off,” he told Sky Sports.
"That's two games in a row we've had those decisions go against us, but that one was one of the worst I've seen.
"You can elbow Leny Yoro in the side of the head, a leading arm, obviously.
"Then you can throw your arm in Licha's face and as he's off-balance because of that, he half touches the back of his hair which pulls the bobble out and leads it to look like - I don't even know what it looks like.
"It's not a pull, it's not a tug, it's not aggressive, he touches it and gets sent off. Worst of all is he was sent to overturn it as a clear and obvious error. It's shocking."
Leeds make history in rare Old Trafford win but the real loser isn’t Man Utd
22:35 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordA terrible night for a relegation-threatened team who play in white. Although that team, admittedly, is Tottenham Hotspur. For Leeds United, this was a seminal, spectacular evening; a historic one, too, though even the significance of a first league win at Old Trafford since 1981 felt less immediate that the growing possibility they will stay up.
But for Michael Carrick and Manchester United, even a rousing attempt at a rescue act could not alter the combination of a wretched first half and a dreadful result. It was compounded by the consequences, with Lisandro Martinez’s comeback short-lived as he was sent off for grabbing Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair. Just when it seemed they were certainties to qualify for the Champions League, Manchester United contrived to inject an element of doubt. Carrick lost his 100 percent record at Old Trafford as United manager. The danger is the favourite to become the permanent manager loses rather more than that.
Carrick was an unused substitute for Leeds’ previous win at Old Trafford in 2010. This, however, was a first league victory on enemy turf in 45 years and Noah Okafor can now join Brian Flynn in Leeds folklore. The summer signing’s volleyed double was his first brace for Leeds. The goals came in a pair for this particular Noah, perhaps changing the arc of each United’s fortunes.
Leeds make history in rare Old Trafford win but the real loser isn’t Man Utd
Leeds take huge leap towards safety with seminal Man United win
22:26 , Will Castle
FULL-TIME! Man United 1-2 Leeds
22:06 , Will CastleLeeds took a huge step towards Premier League survival as they stunned 10-man Manchester United in their first league win at Old Trafford since 1981.
Daniel Farke’s side looked rampant from the outset against their fierce rivals and took the lead inside five minutes, with Noah Okafor slotting past Senne Lammens to send the travelling away fans into raptures.
It was Okafor again as Leeds deservedly doubled their lead approaching the break, seeing his volley fortuitously deflect off Leny Yoro and nestle into the United net to put the visitors in a commanding position at half-time.
Things went from bad to worse for United when a returning Lisandro Martinez was sent off on 56 minutes for a hair-pull on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and despite Casemiro halving the deficit 13 minutes later, Michael Carrick’s side were unable to salvage a result as Leeds leapt six points clear of the drop zone.
FULL-TIME! Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:56 , Will CastleThe ball in is punched away by Darlow and THERE IS THE WHISTLE!
Leeds United have won at Old Trafford for the first time in the league since 1981! What a win - that might mean everything to their survival.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:55 , Will Castle90+7 mins: Calvert-Lewin clatters into Ugarte as the ball drops, conceding a free-kick on the centre-circle. This is the game.
Lammens is heading up...
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:54 , Will Castle90+6 mins: Gnonto furious that he hasn’t just won a free-kick in the corner as he goes down under the challenge of Dalot. Here come United...
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:53 , Will Castle90+5 mins: Yoro whips in a cross deep for Casemiro, who heads it into the car back across the six-yard box and causes Darlow to go into a bit of a panic, not sure where the ball is.
It’s knocked out by Bijol for a corner, hyping the crowd up. But the flag’s up against Casemiro. He goes early.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:51 , Will Castle90+3 mins: Leeds have the ball in United’s half. They are just a few minutes away from a first league win at Old Trafford since 1981.
That’s nice and all, but what they’ll really care about is going SIX points clear of the drop zone.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:48 , Will Castle90+1 mins: SEVEN added minutes.
United have a corner... it’s headed out to Dalot who blasts over a volley.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:47 , Will Castle88 mins: Leeds have a chance to breathe. They’ve won a free-kick just outside the United box but decide to play it short, playing the possession game.
They’ve had a couple openings to thread a ball through to Gnonto or Calvert-Lewin, knowing a goal could put this to bed. But their priority right now is game management. See this one out.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:45 , Will Castle85 mins: SAVE AND OFF THE LINE! How have United not found their equaliser?!
It’s first Sesko that’s denied by a stunning save by Darlow from close range, forcing a corner.
Then from the delivery, it’s Calvert-Lewin who heads off the line after Casemiro headed beyond the Leeds keeper, denying the Brazilian his second.
What a climax we’ve got!
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:38 , Will Castle80 mins: And up the other end we go, with Mbeumo being slipped into the box and charging up the shot only to be thwarted by a superb challenge by Bijol, who wins a goal-kick as well.
United attack from the restart though and Cunha fashions himself a shooting opportunity on the bounce, denied by Darlow.
We’ve got a frantic 10 minutes left here.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:37 , Will Castle78 mins: SAVE! Leeds so nearly get their third!
It’s dinked in for Calvert-Lewin he meets the cross in the centre of the box, but he just can’t direct it either side of Lammens who gets down to make a great save.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:34 , Will Castle76 mins: Bogle is whipping in some delectable balls from that right-hand side. United will be the ones with the incentive to score but they need to make sure Leeds don’t get another, which would surely kill this game.
Man United 1-2 Leeds
21:33 , Will Castle74 mins: Tanaka has gone down and isn’t getting back up, leading to jeers from the United fans who think he’s time wasting.
The Japanese midfielder has to come off in the end for Gruev, while double-goalscorer Okafor also makes way for Gnonto. He applauds the away fans as he exits, what a night he’s had.
Fernandes moves closer to Premier League record
21:32 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordHere’s Richard Jolly at Old Trafford:
“Bruno Fernandes moves closer to equalling the Premier League assist record of 20 in a season. For Casemiro, an eighth goal shows what a fine finisher he is.”
GOAL! Man United 1-2 Leeds (Casemiro, 69')
21:26 , Will CastleUnited have a way back!
The hosts have picked up since going down to 10 and it’s Fernandes who helps United find a way back into this game, delivering a perfect ball for Casemiro to head home.
That’s another assist for the Portuguese. Old Trafford is lifted.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:24 , Will Castle65 mins: Chances at both ends to speak.
The first comes Gudmundsson’s way, who’s had a blinder today. The wing-back drives into the box and drills just wide of the far post.
Up the other end, Cunha does well to work himself into a shooting position and forces a fine save from Darlow.
But from the resulting corner, Leeds break with Bogle going route one and driving straight towards goal. He nutmegs his man but the ball rolls too far and into the hands of Lammens.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:17 , Will Castle59 mins: Two more chances flash by for Leeds as they look to capitalise on the man advantage quickly.
They’re on course for a historic evening at Old Trafford.
Martinez banned for next three games
21:15 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordHere’s Richard Jolly inside Old Trafford:
“Lisandro Martinez's comeback only lasted 55 minutes. That red card means he will be banned for the games against Chelsea, Brentford and Liverpool - and Harry Maguire may also be suspended for the Chelsea game.”
RED CARD! Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:14 , Will Castle56 mins: And Martinez is gone. Violent conduct for pulling Calvert-Lewin’s hair.
He’ll protest but nothing will change. United’s night goes from bad to worse.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:13 , Will Castle55 mins: Oh dear, Lisandro.
Paul Tierney has just been sent to the monitor for pulling Calvert-Lewin’s hair while jumping for the ball.
He’ll be off here.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:12 , Will Castle54 mins: Leeds are beginning just to make life difficult for United rather than push for goals - instead of the 3-4-2-1, they’re operating a 5-4-1.
They’re now out to frustrate, maybe a bit more than humiliate.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:10 , Will Castle52 mins: United are ticking it around the Leeds box but can’t find a way through, banging it against white bodies to no luck.
It’s possession in the right part of the pitch, at least.
Fernandes does eventually deliver a decent ball but it goes just over United heads and straight through to Darlow.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:07 , Will Castle49 mins: CHANCE! United show signs of life.
It’s a wonderful touch from Sesko to take him into the box and with a sight at goal, but his shot is saved and then headed over the bar by Justin.
From the resulting corner, though, Leeds break with men in support and Shaw has to produce a very smart tactical foul to prevent any damage. It’s a yellow, but United will take that.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:06 , Will Castle47 mins: We’re two minutes into this second half and already Leeds are threatening.
Calvert-Lewin gets goalside of Yoro and the defender starts tugging at the Englishman. He then lets go as Calvert-Lewin gets into the box, and that’s when he decides to go down.
Paul Tierney says no penalty.
A first for Carrick's interim reign
21:04 , Will CastleHere’s Richard Jolly inside Old Trafford:
“Manchester United have been good at responding to adversity under Michael Carrick. However, this is the first time they have gone two goals down in a game under him. Can they come back?”
BACK UNDERWAY! Man United 0-2 Leeds
21:03 , Will CastleWe’re off again at Old Trafford - and the big news is NO changes from Michael Carrick.
Leeds out to humiliate rivals Man Utd after stunning first half
20:58 , Will Castle
Keane: 'United will be delighted it's only two'
20:56 , Will Castle"Man Utd will be delighted it's only two,” Roy Keane said on Sky Sports. “Leeds have been fantastic. Aggressive, passing it forward, good link-up play, you've got runners and energy.
"There's a lot of composure, United just turned up thinking they can win the game by turning up. Far from it."
Neville: 'Carrick will have to act'
20:55 , Will Castle"The crowd are getting very restless. Carrick will definitely change it, I'm sure. He will have to act,” Gary Neville said on Sky Sports commentary.
"The back four have been well under-par. The midfield pairing of Ugarte and Casemiro isn't a pair that works together. Bruno Fernandes will have to go back into the midfield two.
"For Leeds, to a man they have been sensational."
HALF-TIME! Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:53 , Will CastleWow. What a half of football for Leeds United. And what a test interim boss Michael Carrick has on his hands as he looks to turn around what is on course for a historic humiliation at Old Trafford for Manchester United.
Leeds are two goals to the good and deservedly so, with Noah Okafor’s brace proving the difference.
They broke the deadlock on five minutes but could’ve been ahead on three, if not for the goalkeeping actions of Senne Lammens to deny Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Then at 2-0, it looked certain to be three as Ao Tanaka rounded the keeper after robbing United of possession - but there was Lisandro Martinez to produce a last-ditch tackle on the line.
If Leeds coming like this, though, it’ll be three soon enough. Then four. They smell blood. United are in disbelief.
HALF-TIME! Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:48 , Will CastleWe’ve had our two minutes of additional time... and there goes the whistle. Boos all around Old Trafford.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:47 , Will Castle45 mins: OFF THE LINE! On his return, Lisandro Martinez comes to the rescue to deny Leeds a bit of club history!
United are caught again by the high Leeds press and Tanaka storms into the box before rounding Lammens. It looks like Leeds are about to go 3-0 up on Manchester United, before half-time, at Old Trafford.
But across comes Martinez to slide in with the tackle on the line, forcing a corner.
What a challenge. But this Leeds team want to cause a humiliation.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:44 , Will Castle44 mins: Man United with a corner as we close in on half-time...
It’s punched out by Darlow through a crowd of players, and Mazraoui then whacks a wild effort high and wide from outside the box.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:41 , Will Castle41 mins: Here come Leeds again...
Bogle is in acres of space on the right hand side and dinks it into Calvert-Lewin, who leaps and does manage to get his head on it, but the ball is just too high for him to have control and get it on target.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:40 , Will Castle40 mins: Crunching challenge in the back of Cunha sees him shown a very warranted yellow.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:37 , Will Castle37 mins: Cunha is urged to shoot from range and gives it a fair whack, but it flies over the bar. That had Darlow worried for a second.
The Brazilian is convinced Darlow tipped it over. He’s not happy with the decision of goal-kick.
Man United 0-2 Leeds
20:36 , Will Castle33 mins: Leeds aren’t sitting back - they want more. They rip United open again and sweep the ball right, but the low delivery to Calvert-Lewin is cut out.
United don’t know what’s hit them.
'Noah changing the arc of Leeds' season'
20:35 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordHere’s Richard Jolly inside Old Trafford:
“The goals have come in a two for Noah. Could change the arc of Leeds' season. This is shaping up as a terrible result for a relegation-threatened team who play in white. Though that team is Tottenham, not Leeds.
GOAL! Man United 0-2 Leeds (Okafor, 29')
20:30 , Will CastleIT’S BEEN COMING, AND LEEDS ARE FLYING!
With the visitors ramping up the pressure, Noah Okafor - who broke the deadlock of course - goes for a speculative volley of a dropping ball. It deflects kindly off Leny Yoro and beats Senne Lammens, sending the away end into raptures!
It’s nothing less than Leeds deserve. They’ve been far the better team.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:29 , Will Castle28 mins: Leeds are creating opportunities again and create an overload in attack, playing it across the park before finding Bogle in space in the box.
Bogle drags it across but it’s behind Calvert-Lewin, who doesn’t realise he gets the ball caught on his feet and the chance goes.
They then come again as they catch Casemiro in possession, but Ampadu’s shot in the area is blocked.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:26 , Will Castle25 mins: Oh Amad, it just got away from you!
United work it nicely and find the Ivorian running into the area. A good touch there and he could send his man and give himself a clear shot at goal from 10 yards out - but his touch is way too heavy and he falls to the turf.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:24 , Will Castle23 mins: Once again, Leeds’ threat comes through their wide their wide players as both Gudmundsson and Bogle threaten with crosses.
The latter wins a corner which finds the head of Bijol, but he gets his header all wrong and misses the target, despite having a pretty clear run at it.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:20 , Will Castle19 mins: Another half-chance for United as Amad works his way into the box before trying to curl into that far corner - but there is no curl to speak of.
His scuffed shot sails well wide.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:19 , Will Castle18 mins: Cunha is in the book for diving.
He went down under the challenge of Bijol despite the defender pulling his dangling leg away. The referee had a perfect view of it and penalises the Brazilian.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:18 , Will Castle17 mins: It’s end-to-end stuff!
Gudmundsson’s crosses are giving United real trouble as he whips in another dangerous ball for white shirts to latch onto from the left, but this time the hosts just about deal with it.
They then break up the other end Sesko has a run at his man towards the box, but it becomes awkward for the big Slovenian and his eventual effort is tame.
It's been a while, Leeds fans...
20:14 , Will CastleHere’s Richard Jolly inside Old Trafford:
“Not saying it is a long time since Leeds tasted victory in a league game at Old Trafford but the man who got their last winner in the top flight here, Brian Flynn, turned 70 a few months back.”
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:13 , Will Castle11 mins: United’s first real attack of note sees Amad chase a bouncing ball in behind.
He’s caught up by a Leeds man but cuts in on the edge of the box to shoot, but his effort is saved low by Darlow.
Man United 0-1 Leeds
20:12 , Will Castle8 mins: This is all Daniel Farke could’ve asked of his players in these first eight minutes.
His players are hounding the United defence, chasing down the ball and giving Michael Carrick’s back five some nervy moments.
It’s only the away end you can hear right now.
'Brilliant start for Leeds'
20:08 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordHere’s Richard Jolly inside Old Trafford:
“Brilliant start for Leeds but also notable they have had two great chances from similar situations, getting their wing-backs forward to outflank Manchester United. Senne Lammens saved from Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He could not stop Noah Okafor.”
GOAL! Man United 0-1 Leeds (Okafor, 5')
20:06 , Will CastleIt IS the dream start!
Senne Lammens denied Dominic Calvert-Lewin but there was nothing he could do about that, with the ball falling kindly to Noah Okafor after Lenny Yoro fails to deal with Jayden Bogle’s cross, slotting it past the Belgium and breaking the deadlock for Leeds.
Man United 0-0 Leeds
20:04 , Will Castle2 mins: SAVE! Leeds should be in front!
Gudmundsson whips in a PERFECT low delivery that whips around the Man United shirts into Calvert-Lewin’s path, but Lammens somehow denies the Englishman from point-blank range!
So nearly the perfect start for the visitors.
KICK-OFF! Man United 0-0 Leeds
20:01 , Will CastleWe are off and running at Old Trafford!
Here come the teams
19:56 , Will CastleThe teams are in the tunnels at Old Trafford... we are moments away from getting underway!
Closing in on kick-off
19:50 , Will CastleWe are T-minus 10 minutes until kick-off at Old Trafford.
This one is always a feisty affair and should make for some perfect Monday night viewing - who needs the Masters, eh?
We’ll have minute-by-minute updates from the clash, right here.
Final preparations
19:43 , Will Castle
Head-to-head: Can Leeds get finally get one over on their rivals?
19:40 , Will CastleManchester United have not lost to their arch-rivals Leeds since they made their first return to the Premier League in 16 years back in 2020, going unbeaten across seven meetings.
However, United’s record in that time frame has been far from perfect, winning four and drawing three. Their last contest was the 1-1 draw played out at Elland Road in January, with Matheus Cunha’s strike cancelling out Brenden Aaronson’s opener.
Leeds also held United to a draw on their last trip to Old Trafford back in Feburary 2023, though it could’ve been better as they squandered a two-goal lead, having gone in front in the very first minute through Wilfried Gnonto.
They lived to regret that game, with Leeds having not claimed victory against United since stunningly knocking them out of the FA Cup in the third round in 2010, Jermaine Beckford’s goal proving the difference.
And in the league, their wait for a win goes back to 2002, when Harry Kewell - a man whose reputation of course turned toxic due to his later Galatasaray affiliation - got the decisive goal.
Will this be the night they finally get one over on United?
Harry Maguire wants to make next season special after extending his Man Utd stay
19:31 , Will CastleHarry Maguire believes Manchester United are “in a forward curve” and said he wants to be part of a special campaign next season after signing a new deal to stay at Old Trafford beyond this summer.
“It’s amazing,” Maguire said on the club website. “Obviously, it’s my seventh year. To be at this club, to play for this club for one game is really special. So, to be here seven years – it’s going to be eight – I’m really looking forward to it.
“A big, strong end to the season is the focus now, to put us in a strong position going into next year, and then we’ve got to make next year a lot better and a lot more positive and a lot more special. I’m really looking forward to it.
“I feel like we’re in a good place at the moment. I believe we’re in a forward curve with the club, and I want to be part of that.
“I want to leave the club in a good place, when I do leave the club, and that’s the most important thing. It’s not about me, it’s not about individuals. It’s about the team and the club, and wanting to leave the club in a good place.
“I feel like next season could be a special year, if we carry on working hard, if we recruit well in the summer. It’s a big summer ahead, but like I said, focus on this year to make sure we’re in a good position for next year and then make next year a special year.”
Michael Carrick knows the value of Champions League in helping secure players
19:20 , Will CastleMichael Carrick says a deal to tie down Kobbie Mainoo’s long-term future is “getting closer” – but admits securing Champions League football will help persuade players to commit to Manchester United.
With Harry Maguire signing an extension in recent days, Mainoo could soon follow suit and Carrick is optimistic that discussions are heading in the right direction.
“We’d like to think so and it’s getting closer, so we’re positive with that,” he said.
“We’re calm with it, but we’re positive with it and time will tell how it goes. At the moment, we are in a good place.”
He added: “I think the Champions League just brings so many positive things. It’s where we want to be, there’s no getting away from that.
“That has ramifications for so many different things over…players staying, if it is that; if it’s players coming in, it’s financially (important to) all sorts of different things. It’s what we want to be and we need to try and get used to being in there more often.”
Mainoo out with minor injury
19:15 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordKobbie Mainoo, by the way, has a minor issue. United may miss him. Manuel Ugarte is scarcely a good-luck omen: he has started nine games this season and they have only won one of them.
Daniel Farke backs Ao Tanaka to shine at Leeds
19:09 , Will CastleDaniel Farke insists Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka is happy at Leeds and will get further chances to prove he is a top Premier League player.
"Lately there have been really good performances, so based on that I don't see anything. I know that he loves to play for this club and is happy with us.
"I'm very happy with his development because Ao is not the youngest anymore and for him it's his first season in a top flight.
"He has said publicly he's not yet good enough for this level, but we've always believed in Ao. He produced a really good performance (at West Ham) and proved against a Premier League side that he can play at the top level.
"For Ao there is no limit because he's a top player. He's done this in recent weeks and for that there will be more chances for him in the coming weeks to shine. If he produces performances like he did at West Ham then we are all happy."
The dreaded half-and-half scarf rears its head
19:05 , Will CastleA half-and-half scarf... for a rivalry as heated as this one? That’s footballing sacrilege.
A warm-up for the warm-up?
19:01 , Will CastleThere are stakes at both ends of the table in tonight’s clash between these arch-rivals - but in a few months’ time, these two will meet again on a much more unique, and less pressurised, occasion.
United’s pre-season plans begun to take shape last week after confirming their first friendly as a clash in Dublin against tonight’s opposition, Leeds.
The Premier League rivals will meet at the 82,000-capacity Croke Park stadium on 12 August and will be one of six matches being planned for United in Europe during the summer.
It will be the first football match staged at the venue - which is the traditional home of Gaelic sports - since the Republic of Ireland faced France there in 2009’s World Cup play-off; the night of Thierry Henry’s infamous handball that proved decisive in denying Ireland a place at the tournament finals.
Man United to face arch-rivals in Dublin as pre-season plans begin to take shape
Atmosphere builds at Old Trafford
18:58 , Will Castle
Leeds get triple injury boosts as trio of doubts start
18:55 , Will CastleLeeds are without the injured Anton Stach and Joe Rodon, with James Justin appearing to move into left centre-back.
Jaka Bijol, Noah Okafor and Gabi Gudmundsson were all considered doubts but do start tonight.
Lisandro Martinez returns as Michael Carrick shakes things up
18:51 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordMichael Carrick has made very few changes to his team in his time in charge but, all of sudden there are four tonight.
Manuel Ugarte makes his first start under Carrick, with no Kobbie Mainoo.
A fit-again Lisandro Martinez is in for the banned Harry Maguire.
Noussair Mazraoui starts instead of Diogo Dalot and Bryan Mbeumo makes way for Benjamin Sesko.
Leeds team CONFIRMED!
18:50 , Will CastleLeeds XI: Darlow; Struijk, Bijol, Justin; Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Aaronson; Okafor, Calvert-Lewin.
Subs: Perri, Byram, Bornauw, Longstaff, Gruev, Gnonto, Buonanotte, Piroe, Nmecha.
📋 Your #LUFC XI... pic.twitter.com/ltdmJcuWWb
— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 13, 2026
Man United team CONFIRMED!
18:47 , Will CastleMan United XI: Lammens; Mazraoui, Yoro, Martinez Shaw; Casemiro, Ugarte; Amad, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.
Subs: Bayindir, Dalot, Heaven, Malacia, Mount, Fletcher, Lacey, Mbeumo, Zirkzee.
Introducing your Monday night Reds 👊❤️🔥
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 13, 2026
Team news coming up
18:41 , Will CastleJust a few minutes away from learning this evening’s team news - here’s what we know already...
United welcomed Lisandro Martinez back to the fold during their training camp in County Kildare, meaning the Argentine is in contention after five games out. Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko are also set to be available but the game will come too soon for Patrick Dorgu, who is not yet ready to return. Matthijs De Ligt remains absent while Harry Maguire, who signed a new contract this week, is suspended.
Leeds will make the trip across the Pennines without Anton Stach and Joe Rodon, while former United winger Dan James is also unavailable. Jaka Bijol, Noah Okafor and Gabi Gudmundsson are all doubts.
Michael Carrick planning for next season despite uncertainty over Man Utd role
18:29 , Will CastleMichael Carrick has confirmed he is taking an active role in Manchester United’s planning for next season, despite awaiting a decision on his own future.
“Certainly, in the role I’m in, there’s decisions that need taking care of,” he said.
“I said it as soon as I came here – I’m part of that and whatever that looks like moving forward, I’m part of that.
“I’m trying to improve things and make things better all the time. Certainly there’s conversations in different directions and different things that I’m definitely part of. And I think it should be that way anyway, because things need done. So I’m here to take care of that.”
Premier League relegation battle: How is Leeds' run-in shaping up?
18:16 , Will CastlePosition: 15th | Played: 31 | Points: 33 | GD: -11
Remaining fixtures:
- 13 April - Manchester United (A)
- 18 April - Wolves (H)
- 25 April - Bournemouth (A)
- 2 May - Burnley (H)
- 9 May - Tottenham (A)
- 17 May - Brighton (H)
- 24 May - West Ham (A)
Where to pick up points? The fixtures have fallen fairly kindly for Leeds and the chances are there for them to secure Premier League football next season. Three wins would definitely be enough to survive and two may well do it, so they’ll be eyeing up home fixtures against the current bottom two – Wolves and Burnley – to get over the line. Away games against relegation rivals Tottenham and West Ham also look like prime opportunities to get results on the board.
Tricky contests? Their first game after the international break, away to high-flying Manchester United, is their toughest remaining fixture on paper and leaving Old Trafford with anything would be hugely impressive. That is their only game against a team currently above 10th in the standings but a trip to Bournemouth in April and hosting European football-chasing Brighton in their penultimate fixture won’t be easy. Will an FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham straight after the international break prove to be a welcome distraction or a hindrance?
Final straight? Leeds will be desperate to have secured safety by the time they travel to West Ham on the final day but if not, that could be a high-octane shootout for survival. Games against Brighton and Spurs immediately preceding that are too unfriendly as finales go.
Borussia Dortmund plot third Jadon Sancho signing after troubled Manchester United spell
17:59 , Richard JollyBorussia Dortmund are interested in signing Jadon Sancho for a third time when his troubled spell at Manchester United officially ends, The Independent understands.
The winger is on loan at Aston Villa this season but is available on a free transfer in the summer and Dortmund have confirmed they hope to bring him back to the Signal Iduna Park.
Sancho is in the final months of a six-year contract at Old Trafford – though he has not played for United since the 2024 Community Shield and has not appeared for them in the Premier League since 2023 – and while they have an option to extend his deal for a year, they are unlikely to do so.
Borussia Dortmund plot third Jadon Sancho signing after troubled Man United spell
Wayne Rooney and Luke Littler explain the importance of arrogance to teenage sporting success
17:44 , Will CastleWayne Rooney and Luke Littler feel a certain level of “arrogance” helped them light up the sporting world as teenagers.
The pair, consisting of a Man United legend and Manchester’s own darts sensation, have spoken about their respective journeys on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show podcast, with the former England star saying: “I’ve always had belief, and this is where I think there’s loads of comparisons (between us).
“I think you have to have a certain level of arrogance to be at your best, and that’s not in a bad way.
“From when I was younger I felt that. When I got in Everton’s first-team, I’ve said it many times, I felt like I was the best player at 16.
“Then I moved to Man United, then with England and stuff, you feel you can always make a difference.”
Littler then added: “Obviously I’ve been playing tournament-wise for many years. I think maybe my first proper tournament was at like nine, maybe 10.
“And just like Wayne said, you show a bit of arrogance. The more you do it, obviously people might not like it, but as long as you feel comfortable about doing it, that’s all that matters.”
Rooney and Littler explain the importance of arrogance to teenage sporting success
How the reverse fixture marked a turning point for Man United's season
17:30 , Will CastleWhen Manchester United last faced off against their arch-rivals Leeds at Elland Road in January, it was under much gloomier circumstances.
Ruben Amorim’s dismal reign was still plodding along with the club in sixth, as United eked out a 1-1 draw on the day. But after the Portuguese hit out at his bosses in an explosive press conference after the match, his 14-month stint ended with the sack.
After a couple of winless games under caretaker Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick was appointed as interim to try and steer United to a semblance of a good finish by the end of the season - and the former of midfielder has completely gone beyond expectations.
With seven wins in 10 matches, United have shot up the table to third and are now very well placed to qualify for the Champions League; a win tonight will take them 10 points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea with six games to play.
Odds
17:25 , Will CastleMan United are heavy favourites to continue their recent good run of form and come out on top against Leeds, who are seeking a first league win at Old Trafford in 45 years.
Man United win - 1/2
Leeds win - 9/2
Draw - 16/5
Odds via Paddy Power
Predicted line-ups
17:20 , Will CastleMan United XI: Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo.
Leeds XI: Perri; Struijk, Bijol, Bornauw; Bogle, Ampadu, Tanaka, Justin; Aaronson; Nmecha, Calvert-Lewin.
Leeds team news
17:15 , Will CastleLeeds will make the trip across the Pennines without Anton Stach and Joe Rodon, while former United winger Dan James is also unavailable.
Jaka Bijol, Noah Okafor and Gabi Gudmundsson are all doubts.
Man United team news
17:10 , Will CastleMan United welcomed Lisandro Martinez back to the fold during their training camp in County Kildare, meaning the Argentine is in contention after five games out.
Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko are also set to be available but the game will come too soon for Patrick Dorgu, who is not yet ready to return.
Matthijs De Ligt remains absent while Harry Maguire, who signed a new contract this week, is suspended.
When is Man United vs Leeds?
17:05 , Will CastleMan United’s clash with Leeds kicks off at 8pm BST on Monday 13 April at Old Trafford.
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the UK can watch the game live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage starting at 6:30pm BST. If you’re not a Sky customer, you can grab a NOWTV Day Pass here to watch without a subscription.
Man United vs Leeds LIVE!
17:00 , Will CastleLeeds will make the journey across the Pennines to reignite their famed rivalry with Manchester United in a Premier League clash with ramifications at both ends of the table.
Much has changed since these sides last met, with January’s reverse fixture - a 1-1 draw at Elland Road - proving the breaking point for Ruben Amorim’s ill-fated 14-month reign as United manager.
The club were sixth when Amorim left but under interim boss Michael Carrick, United have shot up the table to third and are now well placed in the top-five race, knowing another win will strengthen their bid to secure Champions League qualification.
Leeds, meanwhile, will come to Old Trafford off the high of qualifying for their first FA Cup semi-final in nearly 40 years but will need to refocus on Premier League survival, with the club precariously placed above the relegation zone.
Good afternoon
16:03 , Will CastleHello there and welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of tonight’s Premier League clash between Manchester United and Leeds at Old Trafford.
Stay tuned for all the latest team news, build-up and match action!
