Leeds United are aiming to cause an upset this weekend as they visit Old Trafford to face Manchester United. The Whites are coming into this game on the back of a hugely entertaining 5-2 win over Newcastle United, but Marcelo Bielsa’s men need at least another win if they are to re-enter the first half of the league table.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
Two of Leeds United’s premier centre-backs in Robin Koch and Diego Llorente are unlikely to feature during the remainder of the year due to injuries. It leaves Bielsa with no options but to persist with the central defensive combination of right-back Luke Ayling and club captain Liam Cooper.
Speaking of right-back, Stuart Dallas has done exceptionally well to provide cover in this position following Ayling’s new role in defence. The Scot should once again look to provide an influential display on the right-hand side while Ezgjan Alioski remains a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank.
Both of these fullbacks were on target in the midweek win over Newcastle United but will need to operate in a far deeper role against a strong United attack. It will, in fact, be essential for them to provide assistance to the two centre-backs as they look to cover Illan Meslier in goal.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is the undisputed starter in the number six role. His effortless passing and an ability to read the game makes him one of the most delightful players to watch in the Premier League. However, it will be interesting to see how he responds with the pressure of playing against a strong United midfield this weekend.
Phillips should be supported by Mateusz Klich, although the Pole is likely to operate in a more advanced role – joining Rodrigo Moreno in the second line of press. It is, however, a possibility that Klich should drop deeper to form a double-pivot alongside Phillips, while Rodrigo could join the lone centre forward up top – creating a situational 4-4-2.
Attack
Raphinha is proving to become a real find for Leeds United this season and is pretty much a guaranteed starter at right-flank this weekend. Jack Harrison has also redeemed himself with his performance against Newcastle United, so he should get the nod ahead of Helder Costa or Ian Poveda on the opposite flank.
They will look to provide the supply for lone striker Patrick Bamford, who scored a rare goal at Elland Road in midweek. It is his record away from home that should put United on high alert, however.
