Manchester United and Leeds United will clash at Croke Park in Dublin this August in the first football match at the venue since 2009
Manchester United and Leeds United, two Premier League powerhouses and long-standing rivals, are set to face off in a landmark friendly match at Croke Park this summer.
The home of the GAA will host these English football titans in Dublin, marking a significant event. This will be the first football match held at the venue since the World Cup play-off between Ireland and France in November 2009.
Here’s everything you need to know about securing tickets for this historic match.
When is the match?
The clash between Manchester United and Leeds United is scheduled for Wednesday, 12 August, reports the Irish Mirror.
What time does it start?
Kick-off is slated for 7.30pm.
When can I buy tickets?
Pre-sale tickets are available from today, Thursday, 2 April.
How do I get pre-sale tickets?
Croke Park Premium and Suite members, as well as Manchester United and Leeds United season ticket holders and members, can access pre-sale tickets.
What if I’m not in any of those groups?
Not to worry, all other fans can register their interest for general sale tickets starting today, Thursday, 2 April.
When does the general sale start?
General sale begins on Friday, 10 April.
Have ticket prices been announced?
Indeed, they have. Adult tickets start at €50, while under-16s can get in for €25. Please note that there will be an additional booking fee.
Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets must be bought through Ticketmaster. Fans are encouraged to register their interest here to increase their chances of securing a ticket.
When was the last football match at Croke Park?
Following another World Cup play-off disappointment, this harks back to the 2009 showdown against France, where a deflected Nicolas Anelka shot gave the visitors a slim first-leg advantage. Giovanni Trapattoni’s team famously nullified that lead through Robbie Keane in Paris, only to be defeated by William Gallas’s extra-time goal, which was set up by Thierry Henry and his notorious handball.
What is Croke Park’s capacity?
While the Ireland-France match saw an attendance of 79,000 spectators, Croke Park stands as one of Europe’s largest stadiums, with 82,300 fans filling it for the NFL regular-season game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings last September.
What are the comments?
Jason Wilcox (Manchester United Director of Football) said: “We’re excited to be heading to Dublin to face Leeds United as part of our pre-season preparations ahead of a big campaign. Playing an important fixture against one of our biggest rivals gives us a fantastic opportunity to connect with our supporters in Ireland. Their passion and energy will be invaluable as we build momentum and ensure the squad is in the strongest possible shape for the start of the 2026/27 season.”
Morrie Eisenberg (Leeds United Chief Business Officer) stated: “We are excited at the prospect of returning to Dublin again this summer, our support in Ireland is huge which was demonstrated last year.”
Peter McKenna (Croke Park Stadium Director) said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome two of football’s most iconic clubs to Croke Park for what promises to be a very special occasion. Following the success of hosting the NFL in 2025, this is another opportunity to bring world class sport to Dublin and Irish fans. We know there is a huge following for both clubs in Ireland and look forward to delivering a special experience in Croke Park Stadium.”
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