Leeds United players reported back for testing this week, and the club’s preseason schedule is now locked in. It’s a busy run. Six friendlies total, three in the United States and three back in the UK, before the real season starts.
The whole thing kicks off Sunday, July 26 against Wrexham at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. That’s a 12:30 a.m. BST start time, which for anyone stateside means Saturday night. Wrexham’s been a box office draw since the Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney takeover, so expect a decent crowd in Florida.
From there it’s up to New Jersey. Leeds face Sunderland on Friday, July 31 at the Sports Illustrated Stadium, again with a 12:30 a.m. BST kickoff. Then comes the marquee matchup: Liverpool on Sunday, August 2 at Soldier Field in Chicago. That one’s at 9 p.m. BST, which is a more reasonable afternoon window for American viewers.
Back to England with a Dublin Stop
After the U.S. leg, Leeds return to Elland Road for a friendly against RB Leipzig on Saturday, August 8. That’s a 2 p.m. kickoff. Then they head to Dublin for a midweek game against Manchester United at Croke Park on Wednesday, August 12, kicking off at 7:30 p.m. local time. The final tune-up is against FC Augsburg at Elland Road on Saturday, August 15, a 3 p.m. start.
That Liverpool game in Chicago is probably the one most fans are circling. Playing a high-press team like Liverpool under Arne Slot — or whoever’s in charge by then — will tell us a lot about where Leeds are at physically. The squad’s been back training this week, so the fitness work is already underway.
What to Watch For
The tour schedule gives Daniel Farke plenty of chances to rotate. Three games in eight days in America is a decent test of depth. And the Wrexham game is a fun opener — they’re a League One side now but they play with real energy. It’s not a walkover.
Leeds haven’t announced any specific roster updates beyond the return-to-training date. But with the transfer window still open, those friendlies could also serve as a showcase for players who might be on the move. Or for new signings to get their first minutes in a white shirt.
Either way, the countdown’s on. First whistle in Tampa is just over a week away.
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