To say that Leeds have a hard landing upon their return to Premier League action would be an understatement.
The Whites genuinely couldn’t have asked for a tougher fixture to kick-off their second half of the season as they head face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City on Wednesday at Elland Road.
Facing City is a tough task at the best of times, but this may be the worst possible moment to play against Pep Guardiola’s side.
Indeed, not only do the Yorkshire club have a few injury and suspension issues heading into this game, they’re going to be coming up against a fully rested and ready Erling Haaland.
However, as their win against Liverpool showed, you can never write Leeds United off, and with that in mind, we’ve had a go at predicting the Whites’ starting XI for this one.
This is a much-changed Leeds team amid a spate of injuries.
Illan Meslier is suffering from glandular fever, so, as The Athletic stated last week, Joel Robles is expected to come in here.
Robles is going in at the deep end here as his Premier League debut for Leeds will see him come up against Erling Haaland.
The back four is very similar to what we have seen for the majority of the season, but there is a change in midfield.
Tyler Adams is suspended, so Sam Greenwood comes in for the American and plays in the midfield as he did against Fulham back in October.
Brendan Aaronson, Crysencio Summerville and Jack Harrison start just behind the striker, while Rodrigo starts up top as he looks to hit double figures in the Premier League for the first time since joining Leeds.
This is bound to be a tough task for the Whites, but they’ve beaten City here before.
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