Lendorf vs Velden - Friendlies Clubs

All eyes turn to the home ground on July 16, 2026 as Lendorf welcome Velden in a Friendlies Clubs encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. He is expected to miss the Community Shield game against Arsenal and the opening Premier League fixture of the season as a result.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Friendlies Clubs contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Lendorf's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Lendorf and Velden have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Man United set for immediate Carlos Baleba blow with £65m midfielder to miss 4 matches.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Friendlies Clubs picture. The team currently most likely to win the 2026 WNBA Finals according to Opta.