Leeds United are aiming to continue their excellent record against the Top Six as they take on Manchester United on Sunday. The Whites have had a difficult run of fixtures lately, playing their last two matches against Manchester City and Liverpool respectively, and will be bracing themselves for yet another tough challenge – this time against one of their biggest rivals.
Manchester United, on the other hand, are hoping to replicate their performance in the reverse fixture when they had inflicted a thumping 6-2 loss over their Yorkshire rivals. The Red Devils will also be keen on maintaining their excellent run of form in the Premier League, having secured five back to back wins that has played an integral role in helping them remain ahead of the chasing pack in the race for the Top 4.
Leeds United Vs Manchester United Tactical Preview
Talking Tactics
Leeds United
Marcelo Bielsa’s tried and tested 4-1-4-1 shape has served him well recently, especially with Stuart Dallas and Tyler Roberts complementing the more defensive-minded Kalvin Phillips in midfield. The defence has also been strengthened thanks to Diego Llorente’s impressive performance, although the Whites are likely to adopt a more cautious approach rather than exhibiting their usual attacking blitzkrieg.
Manchester United
Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer, too, is likely to persist with the 4-2-3-1 setup that has offered him a lot of success in recent weeks. The Red Devils have found a good balance between their defence and attack, thus leading to an overall solidity in the team. However, that could be tested up against a high pressing Leeds team that loves to pressurise the ball carriers. United, therefore, will have to be quick on the ball.
Team News
Leeds United
Leeds United are once again missing their club captain Liam Cooper due to a suspension after the defender picked up a red card against Manchester City. His absence ensures a place for Pascal Struijk in defence, while Raphinha remains a slight doubt and is unlikely to be rushed back into the side, although the Brazilian could be an option on the bench.
Predicted Lineup: Meslier; Ayling, Llorente, Struijk, Alioski; Phillips; Costa, Roberts, Dallas, Harrison; Bamford
Manchester United
Manchester United are without the services of one of their key attackers in Anthony Martial. But with Edinson Cavani playing well, the Frenchman won’t be missed much. The same applies to Eric Bailly, who is a slight doubt heading into this game.
Predicted Lineup: Henderson; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw; Fred, McTominay; Greenwood, Fernandes, Pogba; Rashford
Key Men
Leeds United
Stuart Dallas could be the surprising package once again for Leeds United as they look to take the Manchester United side by storm. The left-back turned midfielder has the tendency to make darting runs into the box and is also capable of scoring from a distance – making him a potential target man for the Red Devils.
Manchester United
Speaking of Man United, Marcus Rashford is, without a doubt, the main man for them heading into this encounter. The Englishman hasn’t had the most productive few months, so it will be an opportunity for him to get back to scoring ways that could be useful for his team in these final stages of the season.
