Manchester United were held to a 1–1 draw by Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday, a result that saw the Red Devils miss the chance to move into the Premier League’s top four amid ongoing inconsistency in their campaign. Brenden Aaronson put Leeds ahead in the 62nd minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse before Matheus Cunha levelled the contest just three minutes later with a composed finish after being set up by substitute Joshua Zirkzee.
The match featured intense energy and several chances from both sides. Leeds started brightly and drew first blood when Aaronson raced onto a through ball and slotted past United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, sending the home crowd into raptures. Manchester United responded almost immediately, with Cunha slipping the ball past the Leeds goalkeeper to ensure the visitors left with a point.
United’s attacking play showed promise, with Cunha also striking the outside of the post later in the game and Benjamin Sesko missing a chance from close range. Leeds, meanwhile, had their opportunities late on as substitutes such as Joel Piroe and Noah Okafor pushed for a late winner.
The result extended Leeds United’s unbeaten run to seven Premier League matches, a strong recovery for the newly promoted side, while Manchester United’s run sees them with only one win in their last five league games. United currently sit in fifth place, just outside the top four, and must address their inability to secure victories against teams outside the traditional elite if they hope to regain momentum in the title race or secure Champions League qualification.
Head coach Rúben Amorim insisted after the match that he remains focused on his job and committed to Manchester United’s project, dismissing speculation about his future despite recent results.
Both teams now turn their attention to midweek fixtures, with Leeds heading to Newcastle and Manchester United travelling to Burnley as they continue their respective Premier League campaigns.
