As the Premier League makes its return for the 2021/22 season, Manchester United welcome old rivals Leeds United to Old Trafford.

With standout signings Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane added to the ranks, Man United fans are well within their rights to get excited at the prospect of silverware this season.

There's no doubt Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have strengthened and anything less than three points here would be disappointing to say the least. However, a victory is certainly not guaranteed in what looks like a mothwatering tie on paper.

Team news

The United team news approaching the first game of the new campaign is not exactly ideal with a few first-choice players ruled out.

The question of who commands the number one spot looks set to be one that will drag on throughout the season as both David De Gea and Dean Henderson will hope to receive the nod. However, the latter is likely to be ruled out having struggled with COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford will miss the first couple of months of the season having undergone surgery on his injured shoulder. 

New signing Sancho could be in contention to make his debut having started training earlier this week. Any appearance for the Englishman is likely to be from the bench whilst Varane is yet to be unveiled by the club.

As for Leeds, Marcelo Bielsa has confirmed recent arrival Junior Firpo, who signed from Barcelona, is available having recovered from a knock.

Jamie Shackleton has also been deemed fit, but centre-back Diego Llorente will miss out due to a leg injury, leaving the Leeds boss with a decision to make at the back.

Predicted lineups 

Man United: De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw, Fred, McTominay, Greenwood, Fernandes, Pogba, Martial.

Leeds: Meslier, Ayling, Koch, Cooper, Firpo, Raphinha, Dallas, Rodrigo, Phillips, Harrison, Bamford.

Ones to watch 

Although it is not certain whether or not he will feature, it would be hard to look past the exciting prospect presented by Sancho. 

The winger recorded a whopping 38 goals and 45 assists in 82 games during his time in the Bundesliga and there is no doubt that he will be the first name fans look out for when the lineups are announced on Saturday. 

If the 21-year old does make his debut in this game it is more than likely to be a substitute appearance and an instant impact from the bench against Leeds would guarantee him a place in the club's history books. 

Over in the Leeds camp, a real diamond amongst the ranks is Brazilian attacker Raphinha. 

The 24-year old registered 6 goals and 9 assists in the league last season and similar performances this term would be sure to turn the heads of some of Europe's big clubs.

Head to head

The Red Devils have recorded a mix of results in pre-season having picked up two wins against Derby County and Everton, a draw with Brentford and a defeat at the hands of Queens Park Rangers.

Meanwhile, Leeds started their preparation with a win over Guiseley, but have been without a win since and have picked up four defeats alongside two draws.

It was Solskjaer who came out on top in his contest with Bielsa last season as although the match at Elland Road ended in a goalless draw, the Old Trafford clash resulted in a resounding 6-2 win for the hosts.

Prediction 

Manchester United 3-1 Leeds United.

How to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on BT Sport with kick-off scheduled for 12.30PM.