The fierce rivalry between Leeds United and Manchester United resumes this weekend with a Premier League clash at Elland Road. This will be the Red Devils' first visit to the ground in almost three years, promising a highly charged atmosphere. Fans need to note several key details, including an unusual Sunday lunchtime kick-off time and exclusive broadcasting information.
Why The Match Kicks Off at 12.30pm on a Sunday
The highly anticipated fixture is scheduled for a 12.30pm start on Sunday, January 4. This specific timing is the result of two critical factors: safety protocols and player welfare regulations.
Firstly, matches between these two historic rivals are officially categorised as 'high risk' due to their intense and long-standing rivalry. Local police authorities frequently request early kick-off times for such fixtures to help manage crowd safety, even when they fall on a Sunday.
Secondly, both teams were in action on New Year's Day. To comply with the Premier League's mandatory 60-hour recovery period for players between matches, the game could not be scheduled for Saturday. The Sunday 12.30pm slot ensures this crucial rest window is fully respected.
How to Watch: TV Channel and Live Stream
The broadcasting arrangements for this derby are also noteworthy. The match will be televised exclusively on TNT Sports. Coverage will be shown on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, with their pre-match build-up beginning at 11am.
Traditionally, the 12.30pm slot is reserved for Saturday fixtures on TNT Sports. However, the broadcaster has moved its lunchtime pick to Sunday on this occasion to accommodate the packed schedule. This move also avoids a direct clash with Sky Sports' usual Sunday 3pm televised game.
For those streaming, the match can be watched live via the Discovery+ app on compatible mobile devices and smart TVs, provided users have an active TNT Sports subscription.
Alternative Ways to Follow the Action
If you cannot watch the game on television, there are other options. talkSPORT will provide live radio commentary across the UK. Alternatively, listeners can tune into BBC Five Live for regular live updates throughout the match.
For fans who miss the live action, highlights will be available shortly after the final whistle. Sky Sports' YouTube channel will host match highlights later on Sunday evening. Furthermore, BBC One's flagship highlights programme, Match of the Day, will feature extended analysis and full match coverage from 10.30pm.
This fixture remains one of English football's most storied and passionate contests. The unique kick-off time and broadcasting details reflect the modern considerations of safety, player welfare, and media scheduling that now shape the iconic Premier League calendar.
