Leeds United rivalry with Manchester United takes fresh twist as Rory McIlroy investment news emerges

Leeds United have made plenty of enemies over the years, one of which is Premier League giants Manchester United.

As per the official Man United website, the two clubs have an “intense rivalry” that began as early as 1906, but has roots even further back in history.

It has taken many intriguing twists and turns over the years, with the Red Devils taking the majority of the bragging rights, although the Whites have also had their moments.

The rivalry has now continued in remarkable fashion with the recently completed £170m takeover of the West Yorkshire club by 49ers Enterprises.

As per BBC Sport (22 October), US golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas bought into the group, but Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy decided not to join them.

“They asked me if I wanted to come on board and I was like, as a Man United fan, can’t go anywhere near that,” said McIlroy, as quoted by BBC Sport.

The legendary figure’s reasoning behind the decision will undoubtedly delight Man United supporters and annoy Leeds supporters in equal measure.

It is a decision that will also frustrate 49ers Enterprises, with McIlroy the UK’s richest sportsperson under the age of 35 [Belfast Live, 19 May 2023].

Two of the biggest clubs in English football, Leeds and Man United will undoubtedly get the chance to meet again soon, with the former hoping that the opportunity will come in next season’s Premier League campaign.

Leeds are certainly on the up under manager Daniel Farke, moving to third in the Championship table following their 3-2 win over Norwich City on Saturday (21 October), with Crysencio Summerville netting a dramatic late winner.

In other Leeds United news, one Whites ace has sent a six-word message to a Liverpool star after injury news emerged at the Premier League club.