Leeds United will relish the prospect of denting Manchester City’s title challenge when they host the league leaders on Saturday.
Leeds have turned a corner under new manager Jesse Marsch and have gradually pulled clear of the relegation zone. They are unbeaten in their last five games and, more surprisingly, have kept back-to-back clean sheets.
Manchester City, meanwhile, will be fully aware of the fact that nothing less than a win will suffice on their trip to Elland Road. Pep Guardiola’s side are coming off a dramatic 4-3 win against Real Madrid in the Champions League, but cannot afford to take their foot off the gas with Liverpool breathing down their neck.
The last time these two sides squared off in the league, Manchester City romped to a 7-0 win at the Etihad.
Leeds United
Leeds United will be without Adam Forshaw, Patrick Bamford and Tyler Roberts, but Jamie Shackleton is in contention to return.
Mateusz Klich was withdrawn at half time against Crystal Palace, but that was due to tactical reasons and he should start in this game.
Manchester City
After a grueling Champions League encounter in midweek, Pep Guardiola will likely make a few changes to his starting lineup.
Raheem Sterling and Jack Grealish were benched against Madrid and are pushing for a start. Joao Cancelo is also available after missing the Champions League game due to suspension. He’s likely to slot in at right back with Kyle Walker still sidelined.
John Stones picked up an injury in the first half against Madrid and he has been ruled out of this game.
Leeds United predicted starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Meslier; Ayling, Llorente, Cooper, Dallas; Klich, Phillips; Raphinha, Rodrigo, Harrison; James
Manchester City predicted starting lineup (4-3-3): Ederson; Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Zinchenko; Fernandinho, Rodri, De Bruyne; Jesus, Sterling, Grealish
Leeds United – Raphinha
Raphinha is Leeds’ top-scorer this season with 10 goals, but he’s found the net just once in his last eight games. The Brazilian could cause the City defence some problems with his pace and dribbling ability
Manchester City – Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus has hit a rich vein of form, with five goals in his last two games, including a four-goal haul against Watford last weekend. Manchester City have never lost a Premier League game in which the Brazilian has gotten on the scoresheet.
Prediction: Leeds United 0-3 Manchester City
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