Leeds United have had a dream start to the Premier League, running both Liverpool and Manchester City close, and registering two wins in the league. The Whites have acted smartly in the transfer window, signing key players for the first-team.
Apart from buying Helder Costa and Illan Meslier on permanent deals, last season’s Championship winners also signed central defenders Diego Llorente and Robin Koch, as well as winger Raphinha and attacker Rodrigo. They also brought back Jack Harrison on loan from Manchester City for a third consecutive season.
Predicted Leeds United lineup post the international break:
Goalkeeper
20-year-old Illan Meslier seems to have earned the trust of Marcelo Bielsa and he is Leeds’ #1, ahead of the experienced Kiko Casilla.
Defence
Leeds had issues at the back ahead of the Premier League season as Ben White returned to Brighton and Gaetano Berardi suffered a long-term injury. But they signed Robin Koch and Diego Llorente to give Bielsa strength in depth at the back. Koch should continue to play alongside club captain Liam Cooper at the back, but we could eventually see the introduction of Llorente to the Leeds United lineup.
Luke Ayling has been impressive at right-back, while Stuart Dallas’ energy and versatility is a big plus for the Whites. The two players should play at right-back and left-back, respectively.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is perhaps Leeds’ most important player, dictating the tempo as well as spraying long balls from midfield. He should play in the middle of the park, with Mateusz Klich playing ahead of him in the Leeds United lineup.
Pablo Hernandez, who has been a key player for Bielsa over the last few seasons, has struggled with injuries. Once he is back, he should play in the attacking midfield role. For now, either Tyler Roberts or Rodrigo should play in that role.
Attack
Patrick Bamford was criticised by all and sundry for not taking his chances, but he has surprised everyone with his goals in the Premier League. He has scored three goals in three Premier League games, and he should continue up top. Bielsa could use Rodrigo in that role if Bamford loses form or suffers an injury.
Jack Harrison’s dribbling and work-rate has made him an important player on the left. He should start there, while Helder Costa – despite the arrival of Raphinha – should start in right midfield. Bielsa has the likes of Raphinha, Poveda and Alioski to call upon in the wide areas.
