The 2021 summer transfer window has officially come to an end – a window that could go down as one of the most chaotic ones in footballing history. One of the clubs involved in the gruelling deadline day business was Leeds United, notably bringing in Daniel James from Manchester United. It could serve as a sigh of relief for Marcelo Bielsa whose team have had a difficult start to the season.
Here, at The 4th Official, we will take a look at the strongest possible Leeds United lineup Bielsa can possibly employ, including all the new signings this summer.
Strongest Leeds United Lineup Including New Signings
Defence
Leeds United have brought in two new faces in defence, as far as the senior side is concerned. Kristoffer Klaesson joined from Valerenga, but can only serve as a back-up for first-choice goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Junior Firpo, meanwhile, was a marquee signing from FC Barcelona. He is the direct replacement for Ezgjan Alioski and should occupy the left wingback slot, with Bielsa not having any real alternatives.
The same can be said for Stuart Dallas operating as the right-wing back in a 3-3-3-1 formation that often brings the best out of the 30-year-old.
In central defence, Diego Llorente is a surefire starter, having emerged as one of Leeds’ best defenders over the past few months. He should be accompanied by the experienced and ever so reliable Luke Ayling and the young Pascal Struijk.
Liam Cooper and Robin Koch are the add ons, serving as back-ups for the central defenders in what will be a long season ahead.
Midfield
In defensive midfield, Kalvin Phillips is the undisputed starter. His calmness and composure will be critical to Leeds’ approach play, with the Englishman poised for yet another successful campaign.
Alongside him, Dallas may have the freedom to occasionally drift into a central role and support him in the second line of press. But largely, the onus will be on Mateusz Klich to oscillate between a number ten and a number eight role.
Attack
In the attack, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha are guaranteed starters as they have shown immense quality over the past 12 months. But there is a slight dilemma in the left-wing slot, where Jack Harrison will now have to compete with Daniel James.
Practically, Harrison is Leeds United’s strongest option right now, having played under Bielsa for many years. So the former Man City star gets the nod ahead of his former Man United counterpart for now, but it won’t be surprising to see James eventually settling into life quickly at Elland Road.
