The 2021/22 edition of the Premier League starts with a banger as Leeds United take on Manchester United on Saturday in what is considered as one of the fierce rivalries in English football. Coming on the back of a strong return to the top-flight, the Whites are hoping to take a step further and push for the European places this season, but starting the campaign on a positive note could be essential, especially against a Man United side who are tipped as one of the title contenders.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
Marcelo Bielsa will need to be careful with his team selection, especially in the defensive department. New signing Junior Firpo remains a doubt and is unlikely to be handed his debut in such a high-profile encounter. Diego Llorente, meanwhile, is a doubt as well, potentially forcing Bielsa to opt for Liam Cooper and Pascal Struijk at the heart of the four-man backline.
The Argentine always has the option to revert to a 3-3-3-1 he used during the backend of last season. But with key players unavailable, he could prefer a modest approach by deploying Luke Ayling in his usual right-back position.
Stuart Dallas, too, may have to operate at left-back, though Bielsa is more than likely to shift the Northern Irishman into a central attacking role later in the game, with Firpo hoping to make his debut.
Illan Meslier, meanwhile, remains a guaranteed starter in goal especially after the loan exit of Kiko Casilla. New signing Kristoffer Klaesson should start on the bench as the potential alternative.
Midfield
There are doubts brewing over the participation of Kalvin Phillips in this game. The midfielder is certainly fit but he joined the Leeds United camp late owing to an extended break offered to him after his exploits at Euro 2020 with England.
As such, there is a significant chance of Robin Koch getting the nod at holding midfield. The German will be responsible for offering solidity and control in the middle of the park.
He will be additionally supported by Mateusz Klich in the advanced midfield role, though the Pole may have to operate deeper than usual. The same cannot be said for the other attacking midfielder in Rodrigo, who may even join the attackers in the first line of press.
Attack
In the attack, Leeds United should persist with the traditional front three of Raphinha and Jack Harrison supporting Patrick Bamford in the number nine slot. The formula worked like magic for the Whites last season, but things could get a bit more difficult up against a reinforced Man United midfield this weekend.
