Leeds United are currently shuffling between one top club to another, as they lock horns with Manchester United at the Elland Road on Sunday. The Whites are heading into this game on the back of clashes against Manchester City and Liverpool, with the 1-1 draw with the Reds in midweek emerging as the symbol for counter-rebellion against the “dirty dozen”. They will be hoping to keep their spirits high once again this weekend against the Red Devils.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
Leeds United fans didn’t have the best of memories when Leeds United last faced Manchester United. So naturally, they will need to fix up their remaining defensive issues as Marcelo Bielsa hopes to not only avoid a humiliation like last time but also inflict a defeat on their arch-rivals.
Diego Llorente has become a revelation for Leeds since returning to full fitness. He even scored the late equaliser against Liverpool and will be entrusted with the responsibility of marshalling the four-man backline, alongside Pascal Struijk, who will continue to deputise for the suspended captain Liam Cooper, though Bielsa also has the option of Robin Koch.
There shouldn’t be too many changes elsewhere either, with Luke Ayling and Ezgjan Alioski hoping to continue as wing-backs while Illan Meslier remains a guaranteed starter in between the sticks.
Midfield
Bielsa has very little reason to make any changes in central midfield either. Kalvin Phillips, for a start, is a vital cog in the club’s approach play and his ability to distribute possession, coupled with his game-reading abilities, could be integral to Leeds’ fortunes in this key fixture.
The English international should be partnered by Tyler Roberts and Stuart Dallas in the more attacking roles. Dallas, in particular, is currently in inspiring form, having netted crucial goals throughout the course of the season. He should, therefore, once again get the nod ahead of Mateusz Klich in the number ten role this weekend.
Attack
As for the attacking department, there are still question marks over the fitness of star player Raphinha. We do expect him to be back, but the Brazilian is unlikely to start.
It should see Helder Costa retaining his place in the starting eleven, alongside Jack Harrison in the wider attacking positions as they look to offer the supply for Patrick Bamford.
