Leeds United fans got a first look at new signing Sean Longstaff on Saturday as the midfielder made his debut in the pre-season friendly against Manchester United.
On Saturday afternoon, Leeds United played Premier League rivals Manchester United in a pre-season friendly in Stockholm.
It was both teams’ first game back this summer and Leeds United looked solid. Daniel Farke’s side had a lot of possession in the first half in particular, though the Red Devils grew into the game. Leeds United and Man United drew 0-0 in the end.
For Leeds fans, it was a chance to see all five new signings in action for the first time including Sean Longstaff whose move to Elland Road was only confirmed on Thursday.
Leeds United sign Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United in £15m deal
Longstaff was linked with Leeds United right back in spring 2024 when reports stated that Leeds United wanted to sign Longstaff from Newcastle United in the event that the Whites won the Championship play-off final, which they of course lost to Southampton.
Going into this summer’s transfer window, Longstaff’s links to West Yorkshire were once again reignited. Leeds, after having several bids rejected, managed to agree a £15m deal for Longstaff, who’s joined from Newcastle on a four-year contract.
And surprisingly, he made the team that faced Manchester United in Sweden despite only signing for the club 48 hours ago, and he came on at half time to make his Leeds United debut.
What the Leeds United fans said about Sean Longstaff on his debut
In a packed out midfield, Longstaff got his first minutes under his belt, and Leeds United fans clearly liked what they saw from the 27-year-old on his debut, albeit only getting 45 minutes and not a whole lot of the ball.
One thing that a couple of fans pointed out is Longstaff’s immediate energy and hunger in the midfield. “Love how Longstaff is clapping and motivating the team already,” posted one fan, as another added: “Love to see that hunger early on!”
“Like the look of Longstaff already,” said one Leeds United supporter. Another similar comment read: “Looking like it could be money well spent on Longstaff!”
The early signs certainly seem to be positive from Longstaff. It was a difficult game to come into on Saturday, and after such a short time as an actual Leeds player too.
But he held his own and showed glimpses of his quality, and Leeds United should rightly have high expectations for the former Newcastle man next season.
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