Manchester United predicted XI to face Leeds: Sabitzer handed first start

Marcel Sabizter is predicted to gain his first start for Manchester United as they welcome Leeds United to Old Trafford.

Manchester United have been on incredible form at the famous ground of late, having won their last 13 fixtures in a row at home. Erik ten Hag will be looking to continue this run, and will no doubt look to pick a strong line-up in order to continue this good run.

As has been the case all season, David de Gea will most likely start in goal for United. Despite Diogo Dalot recently returning to training, it may be judged to early to introduce him back into the starting XI, meaning Aaron Wan-Bissaka is predicted to continue his place at right-back – although we could see the reintroduction of Dalot as the game progresses.

Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane will probably continue their brilliant partnership as central defenders for Erik ten Hag, with it being rumoured that Harry Maguire has been deemed “sellable” this summer. Luke Shaw should continue at left-back after collecting an assist against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

In midfield is one area where Ten Hag will need to change his usual suspects. Against Crystal Palace, Casemiro was sent off for violent conduct after gripping the throat of Will Hughes during a brawl, and will miss the next three fixtures. In his place, it is likely that fans will see a first start for new loan signing Marcel Sabitzer, who was originally drafted in to replace the injured Christian Eriksen.

Next to Sabitzer will probably be Fred. Fred has received a lot of praise in recent weeks for his performances off the bench, and with Scott McTominay also out (injured), United’s midfield depth is lacking, meaning Fred will get his chance.

Ahead of them, without doubt, will be Bruno Fernandes – who has performed as United’s on-field captain when Maguire has not played this season.

Antony is also out of the fixture with a small muscular problem, meaning a first start in over three months for Jadon Sancho on the right hand side could be on the cards on the right hand side.

Anthony Martial is out with a hip problem, meaning Wout Weghorst will more than likely continue his string of starts up front, with Marcus Rashford rounding off the front line.

Full predicted XI

De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Shaw, Sabitzer, Fred, Fernandes, Sancho, Weghorst, Rashford.