Man United v Leeds EPL Matchweek 1 betting tips – August 14, 2021

Old rivals Manchester United and Leeds United are set to battle it out at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon in one of the marquee matchups of Matchweek 1 in the 2021/22 EPL season. BettingPlanet.com brings you the best bets for what is set to be the 95th league meeting between these two arch-rivals.

Man United v Leeds EPL match analysis

Manchester United begin the 2021/22 season as one of the key market rivals to Manchester City in the EPL title betting. However, the Red Devils will be without Marcus Rashford (shoulder), Jesse Lingard (coronavirus), and Alex Telles (ankle) for this weekend, whilst goalkeeper Dean Henderson is under a fitness cloud as he recovers from the coronavirus.

United will no doubt want to start the season as they mean to go on, as their first half of the 2020/21 season ultimately cost them a shot at seriously challenging Man City for the title. Despite new signing Raphael Varane unlikely to start, the Red Devils are assured in defence these days, and with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Edison Cavani and Paul Pogba controlling things in midfield and attack, United fans should be confident heading into the opening weekend.

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Leeds were one of the surprise packets of the 2020/21 campaign, finishing ninth in their first season back in the top flight. The Peacocks finished last season off with four consecutive wins, meaning they are chasing a fifth straight win in the EPL for the first time since 2001. Leeds are set to welcome Diego Llorente and summer signing Junior Firpo into their starting lineup for opening weekend after the duo missed the club’s last two pre-season friendlies.

The Whites were entertaining to watch throughout last year, running their opponents ragged with high pressure and swift counterattacks. With the creativity of Raphinha on the right side of the pitch and a genuine goalscorer in Patrick Bamford up top, Leeds will get their chance to rattle United. Unfortunately, with Kalvin Phillips expected to miss, it could be a bridge too far for Leeds on opening day.

Man United v Leeds EPL predictions & best bets

Correct score: Manchester United 3-1

When Leeds last travelled to Old Trafford back in December 2020, they were dismantled 6-2 thanks to a Bruno Fernandes masterclass. They head back to Manchester potentially without their most important player in Kalvin Phillips, whilst United will be looking to get their 2021/22 EPL season off to a solid start. With a midfield of Paul Pogba, Scott McTominay and Fernandes, the Red Devils should create enough chances to put a few past Leeds this weekend.

Anytime goalscorer: Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes is coming off a disappointing Euro 2020, but the Portuguese midfielder will be a crucial cog in Manchester United’s success this season. He netted 18 goals last season, including a brace when United thrashed Leeds 6-2 at Old Trafford. Even if he does not score in open play, Fernandes’ ability from free kicks and the penalty spot should ensure he finds his way onto the scoresheet.