Leeds United will brace themselves for a tough challenge ahead as they lock horns with Manchester City on Saturday. The Whites have kickstarted their 2020/21 campaign on a positive note, securing two victories in their first three matches. However, things are bound to get infinitely more difficult against the Sky Blues, who are one of the main title contenders in the Premier League this season.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Manchester City
Defence
Leeds United’s new signing Diego Llorente was not in the substitute bench in the last game. But, the Spaniard is in contention to feature this weekend, though starting him against a strong opponent like Manchester City will be an unwise decision from Marcelo Bielsa.
Hence, we should expect Robin Koch and Liam Cooper to continue at the heart of the four-man backline. These two haven’t exactly found their rhythm but were promising against Sheffield United in the last game.
There aren’t likely to be changes elsewhere either, with Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas both occupying the fullback positions once again. The latter, in particular, was excellent against the Blades last weekend but could be tested by the mighty attack of Manchester City this time around.
Another top performer for Leeds United in the last game was Illan Meslier. The young Frenchman is a guaranteed starter in between the sticks, ahead of Kiko Casilla.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is an assured starter for Leeds United in the holding midfield role. The English international could be essential in that number six position, especially given his ability to read the game and distribute possession.
That said, Phillips will still be hoping for support from Mateusz Klich, who could be forced to operate in a deeper role due to the quality of the opposition. In fact, it won’t be surprising to see the Pole operating in a double-pivot alongside Phillips during the defensive phases.
In the advanced midfield role, star player Pablo Hernandez has been ruled out for two weeks, meaning Tyler Roberts could once again start, with Rodrigo likely to be utilised as a second-half substitute.
Attack
Bielsa will be forced to make at least one change in attack as star player Jack Harrison is ineligible to play against his former club. Ian Poveda did well in the last game, but Ezgjan Alioksi may get a rare starting opportunity at left-wing, with Helder Costa featuring on the opposite flank.
The Leeds United attack will be spearheaded by the in-form Patrick Bamford, who has been involved in five goals in the first three matches in the Premier League this season.
