Daniel Farke confirms former Manchester United winger ruled out of Old Trafford return

Leeds United will travel to Old Trafford on Monday night without Daniel James, manager Daniel Farke confirmed on the eve of the match, removing a compelling subplot from a fixture already rich with history.

The Welsh winger, who joined Leeds after two seasons at Manchester United, has been sidelined by an abductor injury and will not face his former club. James had been eager to return to the ground where he once scored on debut in a 4-0 victory over Chelsea, but medical staff have ruled him out of contention.

Farke’s injury bulletin did not end there. Midfielder Anton Stach will also miss the trip after damaging ankle ligaments in the FA Cup, while centre-back Joe Rodon has been declared unavailable. Further clouding the selection picture, forwards Noah Okafor and Jaka Bijol remain doubtful, leaving the visitors with a threadbare squad.

The timing is particularly awkward for Leeds, who held Manchester United to a 1-1 draw in the reverse meeting—a result that proved to be Ruben Amorim’s final match in charge before his dismissal. That stalemate remains a reference point for Farke as he urges his depleted group to maintain belief, citing last weekend’s FA Cup progression as evidence of the squad’s resilience.

James’s absence not only robs the contest of a headline reunion but also deprives Leeds of a player who signed an extended deal last summer in recognition of his development since leaving Old Trafford. In total, the 26-year-old recorded nine goals and eight assists during his United tenure before seeking more consistent minutes elsewhere.

Farke indicated that several casualties may not return until May because of ligament complications, underlining the long-term nature of the club’s current fitness crisis. Even so, he stressed the importance of seizing momentum during a pivotal stretch of the campaign.

Off the pitch, Leeds are expected to strengthen their defensive ranks by signing Manchester United youth product Alfie Walker this summer, adding another layer of connection between the fierce rivals. Yet when the sides walk out on Monday, one familiar face will be confined to the stands rather than patrolling the touchline he once called home.