Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025

Kickoff: 3:00 PM BST

Venue: Turf Moor, Burnley

Team News

Burnley

• Defenders Connor Roberts (knee) and Jordan Beyer (hamstring), along with forward Zeki Amdouni (cruciate ligament), remain long-term absentees.
• Striker Lyle Foster withdrew from international duty with a muscle strain and is a major doubt, with manager Scott Parker to make a late decision.
• Winger Jaidon Anthony has recovered from a quad issue and has been passed fit for selection.

Leeds United

• Winger Wilfried Gnonto (hernia) and is ruled out and will not make the matchday squad.
• Forward Noah Okafor is a doubt as he continues to struggle with an adductor injury. Daniel James (ankle discomfort) may make the bench after being ahead of schedule in his recovery.
• Lucas Perri (muscle) and Harry Gray (hip) are also confirmed absentees.

Manager & Pundit Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the challenge: Farke is "under no illusions as to the challenges Scott Parker's team will offer." He added, "I don't expect any easy moments in this game... I expect a pretty, pretty tight and competitive game."
• On Burnley: He praised his opposite number, saying, "Scott is doing such a fantastic job there." He also noted that Burnley were "competitive in each of the games" despite having a "tough start in terms of fixtures."
• On the short-term future: Farke believes the upcoming run is a "difficult period because we have three away games, just one home game," and stressed the need to focus on the Burnley game to "give ourselves a chance with a top performance again to win points."

Scott Parker (Burnley)

• On his opposite number: Parker has "full admiration for Daniel and the work he has done" in achieving promotion from the Championship more than once, calling it an "extremely difficult task."
• On the match: The Clarets boss is focused on the positives, stating, "I think it is just a game to look at with a lot of positivity and go there and try to take three points from it."
• On the team's approach: Parker echoed a desire for a positive approach, stating that both teams "will be looking to attack."

Head-to-Head

• Leeds United has had the slight upper hand in recent Premier League meetings, winning three and drawing one of the last four top-flight encounters.
• The last competitive meeting at Turf Moor, during their Championship season, ended in a 0-0 draw.
• Burnley will take comfort in the fact they are unbeaten in their last two home games against Leeds in all competitions.
• Leeds has not lost in five consecutive head-to-head meetings across all competitions.

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

BBC Sport (Chris Sutton): Sutton, who previously said Leeds had impressed him, has noted that this will be a "very tight" game against a strong Leeds outfit.

• Prediction: Draw (1-1 - via multiple sources referencing his prediction)

Sky Sports (Paul Merson): Merson is anticipating a closely fought contest between the two promoted sides who are desperate for points to pull away from the relegation battle.

• Prediction: Burnley 1-1 Leeds United (via Sportskeeda)

The Guardian Analysis: The paper highlights that this "match between two promoted sides could be a defining early-season moment." They note that Burnley will be eager to fortify Turf Moor, which "needs to be a solid foundation," while Leeds are looking to bounce back from their loss to Tottenham.

VAVEL Analysis: The analysis from VAVEL states that a win on Saturday is a "must" for both managers. They point out Burnley's struggle (one win, four points) after a tough start but note that Leeds are also looking for consistency after dropping points in the final moments against Bournemouth. They name Dominic Calvert-Lewin as the key Leeds player, noting this is the "exact type of game that he has been brought in for."

Ladbrokes Analysis (Independent Source): The analysis suggests Burnley's "leaky" defence and dismal form will be exploited by Leeds' attacking options, despite Farke's side having a "mixed bag" of results. They believe Leeds have the superior quality to edge a close game.

• Prediction: Burnley 1-2 Leeds United

Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025

Kick-off: 12:30 BST

Venue: Elland Road, Leeds

Match Facts & Form

Leeds United

• Current League Position: 12th (8 points from 6 games)
• Form (Last 5 League Games): W-L-L-W-D
• Notes: Leeds have made an encouraging return to the Premier League under Daniel Farke and remain unbeaten at home this season (W1, D2). Their last league match was a frustrating 2-2 home draw with Bournemouth, conceding a late equaliser.

Tottenham Hotspur

• Current League Position: 4th (11 points from 6 games)
• Form (Last 5 League Games): W-W-L-D-D
• Notes: Spurs, now managed by Thomas Frank, are also unbeaten away in the league (W2, D1). However, they come into this game on the back of two consecutive draws, a 1-1 league draw vs Wolves and a midweek Champions League draw in the Arctic Circle vs Bodo/Glimt.
• Spurs have dominated this fixture recently, winning five of the last six encounters, though Leeds' last home win against them was in 2021.

Manager Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United):

On the Promising Start to the Season: "It's good that we have had such a positive start, but it is a long road and we have to make sure we deliver consistency. We want to be able to stay in the league, so we have to keep going. We have shown that against who we play, especially in the home games here, we've always a chance and that we're always ready to fight for the points."

On Joe Rodon's Return Against His Former Club: "I think he's a way better player than he was perhaps three years ago. It’s more difficult to come into a side like Tottenham when they were more or less playing in the Champions League final. He's much more mature, he's grown as a player and as a person. He has proven in the first games that even on this level he can perform on a top-top level. I like that he adds more to be a goal threat from set-pieces, it's something I've always moaned about."

On Tottenham's Midweek European Trip: "I don't believe Leeds have an advantage over Spurs given they played in Norway on Tuesday. Nowadays they don't travel by bicycle or coach, it is a private jet and they have chefs and all sorts! For that you must be spot on (against Thomas Frank's team)."

Thomas Frank (Tottenham Hotspur)

On the Elland Road Atmosphere: "I always admire (Elland Road) as one of the best stadiums to go to because the atmosphere is fantastic there. So it's a game we're looking forward to playing."

On the Team's Mentality: "We start tomorrow trying to get up 1-0 first... it's football and in football there's a relatively big risk that the opponents will score and you need to manage to overcome that. I think the mentality and the foundation we are building, it's very important that you are able to do that."

Team News

Leeds United

• Out: Winger Dan James (Ankle - 4-6 weeks), Winger Willy Gnonto (Calf), Goalkeeper Lucas Perri (Fitness/Returning to training).
• Doubtful: Harry Gray (Hip flexor injury).

Tottenham Hotspur

• Out: Radu Drăgușin (Cruciate Ligament), James Maddison (Cruciate Ligament), Dominic Solanke (Ankle Surgery), Randal Kolo Muani (Close to return).
• In: Cristian Romero (Confirmed fit and available after missing midweek Champions League game).

Predictions & Analysis

Chris Sutton (BBC Sport)

• Prediction: Draw (1-1)
• Quote on Leeds: "Fair play to Leeds, they have really surprised and impressed me so far. There is a good balance to their team because they carry a threat and can dig in too... Daniel Farke deserves a lot of credit."
• Quote on Tottenham: "Tottenham have had a difficult week, having to fight back to rescue draws against Wolves and Bodo/Glimt, and this is going to be another tricky game for them. I can actually see it ending in another draw for Spurs. At least they played in the Arctic Circle on Tuesday night rather than Wednesday but a lunchtime kick-off on Saturday is still far from ideal, and this Champions League campaign is going to stretch their squad."

Alan Shearer (Metro)

• Prediction: Draw
• Quote: "With Leeds playing at home and Tottenham being away in the Champions League during the week, it won't be an easy game. I'll go for a draw."

The Independent / Evening Standard

• Prediction: Draw (1-1)
• Analysis/Quote: "Even with their injury problems, you would expect Tottenham to take three points here, but they have looked disjointed in attack in recent weeks... Leeds are a dangerous opponent - especially at home - and have their own threats... Draw, 1-1."

GOAL.com

• Prediction: Tottenham Win (1-3)
• Analysis/Quote: "It will be an open game with plenty of chances for both sides, but Tottenham's superior quality might just see them get the result."

Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

Kickoff: 3:00 PM BST

Venue: Elland Road, Leeds

Team News

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the Premier League Level and Confidence: "We stay humble. We know two wins after five games is really good, seven points for a newly promoted side is really good. But we also know seven points won't be enough to earn the right to stay in this league, so it's a long road and we have to add a few more wins and many more points. The first five games have shown we belong in this league, we can play at this level and we can win these games."
• On Bournemouth's Form and Quality: "They are a really good side, top-half last season. They have had a top start in terms of results and performances, fully deserve to be in the top four, same amount of points as Arsenal in position two. They have lots of intensity, and Andoni [Iraola] has done great work. As a newly promoted side, you can never really be the favourite, but we're in good shape, capable of winning points no matter who we play."
• On Key Player Dominic Calvert-Lewin: "He's been brilliant with attitude, character, and behaviour, leading young players. Very important and a great teammate, the most experienced Premier League player. Starting to take more responsibility in the dressing room, and that starts with what he delivers on the pitch... He will be a very important player for this season as well as the mid/long term."

Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth)

• On the Challenge Posed by Leeds and Fellow Promoted Teams: "I think the three teams that have got promoted, they have been very solid, very good. I was reading the other day, I think it's the most points they have had between the three in this moment for the last 20 something years so it puts more difficulty for the others to stay in this league. I think it's going to be expensive points wise because they are doing very well and also they look solid."
• On Leeds' Key Signings and Experience: "I think the three teams, they have signed players with Premier League experience like [Sean] Longstaff, Calvert-Lewin... players that are very good players, they have been here before, they have been competing even in big clubs. I think they have this stability that will help them with the other new signings and new players that they already had and I think it's going to be expensive to stay this season so every point that we can add now is welcome."
• On Managing Lewis Cook's Injury Ahead of Elland Road Return: "We have the situation with Lewis Cook. He is still in some pain in the shoulder. He is training with us but we have to take a decision. We will have to see how he trains and see if he can travel with us, or if it's better we leave it until next week. It's a decision we have to take today after training."

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

• BBC Sport (Chris Sutton): Despite praising Leeds' recent 3-1 win over Wolves, Sutton backs the visitors. He said: "I was very impressed by Leeds' win over Wolves last time out - it really surprised me, but it was a brilliant result that showed what they have got to offer under Daniel Farke... Even so, I am backing Bournemouth here. The Cherries were a bit flat against Newcastle last week but they usually create loads of chances and that's what I am expecting them to do at Elland Road.”
  • Sutton's Prediction: Leeds United 1-2 AFC Bournemouth
• Sky Sports (Jones Knows): Jones Knows suggests the game is set up well for a Leeds win. His analysis focuses on Bournemouth's style of play: "Bournemouth are a fantastic team to bet on as their style never changes and clear, trustworthy patterns are emerging in that when teams allow them the ball, they struggle... If Bournemouth can't force you into transitions, they become awkwardly one-paced and predictable in the final third." He also advises on a low-scoring affair.
  • Jones Knows' Prediction: Leeds United Win (But also suggests a possible Under 2.5 Goals bet)
• The Independent/Ladbrokes Preview: This analysis points to a rollercoaster start for Leeds but acknowledges their home strength, noting solid wins against Wolves and Everton. For Bournemouth, it highlights their consistency, including recent wins over Tottenham and Brighton. The prediction leans toward the home side capitalizing on the Elland Road atmosphere.
  • Prediction: Leeds United 2-1 AFC Bournemouth
• Squawka Analysis: Squawka focuses on the contrasting strengths: "Bournemouth start in fourth position following a blistering start... Their defensive record and attacking intent give them a clear edge, but their discipline remains a concern." They note Leeds' struggles to score goals and Bournemouth's superior underlying metrics (xG) and clean sheet record, leading them to back the visitors despite Leeds' historical dominance at Elland Road.
  • Prediction: AFC Bournemouth Win (With a side bet on Over 2.5 Goals)

Head-to-Head

• Overall Record: Leeds has the historical edge with 11 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses in 15 competitive meetings.
• Elland Road Record: Leeds holds an unprecedented record against Bournemouth at home, winning all eight of their previous encounters at Elland Road.
• Last Two Premier League Meetings: The last two Premier League games were goal-fests, with the home team winning each time:
  • April 30, 2023: Bournemouth 4-1 Leeds United
  • November 5, 2022: Leeds United 4-3 Bournemouth

Competition: Premier League
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Venue: Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton
Kick-off: 3:00 PM BST

 

Team News & Form

Wolverhampton Wanderers: Wolves are in a perilous position, having lost all four of their opening Premier League matches, scoring just two goals in the process. Their home form has been particularly concerning, conceding seven goals in their last two league games at Molineux.

Injury Concerns: Wolves will be without forward Jorgen Strand Larsen (Achilles) and Enso David González (Knee). Ki-Jana Hoever is also a doubt with a knee issue. The loss of Strand Larsen, who scored 14 goals last season, is a significant blow to their attacking threat.

Leeds United: Leeds have had a mixed start to their return to the Premier League, with a win, a draw, and two losses. While their attack has been inconsistent—scoring just one goal from open play in four games—their defence has shown resilience, keeping two clean sheets.

Injury Concerns: Goalkeeper Lucas Perri is out with a muscle injury. There are also doubts over the fitness of Daniel James and Joel Piroe, with both struggling with calf problems. Gnonto is also a doubt.

 

Manager & Player Quotes

Vitor Pereira (Wolves Manager): Despite the poor start, Pereira remains confident in his team's ability. "This is the time to be together, not to complain," he stated after the Newcastle defeat. He believes that with time to work on the training pitch, the team's level will increase. The club has also shown a surprising vote of confidence, handing Pereira a new three-year contract this week, a move that has drawn some criticism from pundits.

Daniel Farke: Farke is pleased with his team's defensive solidity. "We are a newly promoted [side] and it is obviously normal that we won't take the league by storm," he said. "First step is to be rock solid at the back and be difficult to beat, and that's what we are." He is not concerned about the lack of goals, believing the results don't always tell the full story.

Ilia Gruev: “We know the away game against Wolverhampton is going to be a tough one. “They will try to keep the three points at home. We, of course, want to win there because we want to win or try to win every game in the Premier League because I think we have the quality also to do this. “Of course, you need to have a good day and you need a little bit of luck sometimes in the game, which is normal. But I have the feeling that we have a good chance to win the three points.”

 

Pundit Analysis & Predictions

Chris Sutton: Wolves are without the injured Jorgen Strand Larsen up front, which is a blow, but I am still backing them to win this one - maybe a new contract for Pereira will mean a new dawn for his team?.

Alan Shearer: It’s so tough to call. Wolves looked very light up-front last weekend. They definitely need Strand Larsen back and because Wolves are at home, I’ll go for a Wolves win.

Athletic: Wolves have been my most reliable source of points — much as they have been for their opponents in the Premier League. I’ve successfully predicted four straight defeats for Vitor Pereira’s team, so it feels like a big move for me to back them to beat a Leeds side who have acquitted themselves reasonably well so far post-promotion. But I feel Wolves have performed slightly better than their record suggests. They have at least been competitive for spells in each of their first four games. At some point, they might actually win one. Wolves 1-0 Leeds.

 

Head-to-Head Meetings

Leeds have had the upper hand in recent Premier League encounters, winning three of the last five. However, Wolves did secure a victory in the most recent cup meeting. The last league match at Molineux was a thrilling 4-2 win for Leeds, a result they will be hoping to replicate.

Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025

Kickoff: 3:00 PM BST

Venue: Craven Cottage, London

Team News

Leeds United

• Leeds has a major boost as captain Ethan Ampadu has returned to training and is ahead of schedule in his recovery from an MCL knee injury. A late decision will be made on his availability, but he is no longer ruled out.
• Goalkeeper Lucas Perri is a confirmed absentee after suffering a quad strain and is expected to miss the next two matches. Karl Darlow is expected to start in his place.
• Forwards Lukas Nmecha (foot) and Joel Piroe (calf) both picked up knocks and missed recent training sessions, making them doubts for the match.
• Ao Tanaka has also returned to training and could be available for selection.

Fulham

• Fulham's squad is nearing full fitness. Defender Issa Diop has returned to contention after a knock.
• Antonee Robinson is also back and expected to start at left-back.

Manager & Pundit Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the returning players: "Both since the beginning of this week have reintegrated and joined in major parts of team training. Ethan even more so than Ao, because he was slightly ahead in terms of schedule. We have 48 more hours to take a late decision with them, it's possible we travel with both of them, just take one or neither to Fulham.”
• On the goalkeeping situation: "How Karl [Darlow] kept his nerve and performed at the end of last season in the crunch-time period was outstanding and in pre-season he looked unbelievably sharp... he knows the Premier League inside out and is not a guy that cracks under pressure and for that he has all of our backing and confidence."
• On the team's philosophy: "A good balance will always be important but we won't change our DNA. We had games against Newcastle and Everton not parking the bus. We were dominating in many periods of the game. We played attacking football but we still needed a good structure and good work against the ball."

Marco Silva (Fulham)

• On the upcoming match: "We are going to face a stronger Leeds outfit than the one we met last year. They have made some very good additions to their squad. We know it will be a proper cup tie against a team with a new manager. We've watched their games against Arsenal and Newcastle, and they have shown they are capable of dominating teams in periods of the game. We will have to be ready to match their intensity."
• On his team's form: "The games, they have been very balanced, decided by the detail against very good side[s]. We have been pleased for the reaction, pleased how we came back in the second half against Manchester United after a goal that should be disallowed. Pleased for the way that we finished the game, pleased with the way the players came in and performed and the way that we played against a big team like Manchester United again."

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

• The Independent: The Independent's analysis points out that Fulham will be looking to get their first win of the season after two draws and a loss. They note that Fulham will be looking to "exploit Leeds' shaky defence, especially after that 5-0 thrashing by Arsenal." They also mention that Fulham's solid backline should be a key factor against an unpredictable Leeds attack.
• BBC Sport (Chris Sutton): "For once, I am very confident I will get this prediction right. Leeds might fancy their chances at Craven Cottage but you only have to look at their respective squads to see the difference in quality between the two sides, player for player... Leeds just don't have that kind of depth and they were well beaten on their last trip to London, a 5-0 defeat at Arsenal a couple of weeks ago. This will be closer, but with the same end result." Sutton's official prediction is a 2-0 win for Fulham.
• The Guardian: The Guardian's analysis highlights that both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities in their opening fixtures. They note that Fulham have gone 12 league games without a clean sheet and that Leeds conceded five goals across their three league encounters. They suggest that both sides will create opportunities and that consistency remains elusive for each team.
• Sky Sports (Jones Knows): "A thrilling encounter in September saw the Whites defeat the Cottagers 4-3 at Elland Road... I believe Fulham might just have the edge at home." He's tipping the game to have over 2.5 goals.

Head-to-Head

Fulham has had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning each of the last three encounters with Leeds across all competitions. This includes a 2-1 Premier League victory at Craven Cottage in April 2023 and a 2-0 win in the FA Cup in February 2023. Fulham is looking for their fourth successive victory in this fixture for the first time ever.

Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025

Kickoff: 5:30 PM BST

Venue: Elland Road, Leeds

Team News

Leeds United

• Leeds has a major blow with the confirmed absence of captain Ethan Ampadu, who is sidelined until after the international break with an MCL knee injury.
• Midfielder Ao Tanaka is also out with a knee issue.
• New signing Noah Okafor is a doubt after picking up a groin issue, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin is building up his fitness and could make a full debut.

Newcastle United

• Newcastle is facing an injury crisis. Midfielder Joelinton is out with a groin injury and Sandro Tonali is a doubt with a shoulder problem.
• Key defender Fabian Schär is also a doubt after suffering a concussion.
• Anthony Gordon is suspended after his red card against Liverpool, and there is still uncertainty around the future of striker Alexander Isak.

Manager & Pundit Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the challenge: Farke has vowed that Leeds "won't sell out our DNA and park the bus" against top teams. He added that "It's our biggest test so far, we have also proven in the first game and also pre-season when we've faced sides like AC Milan or Man United or Villarreal that we are competitive.”
• On the home crowd: "We made Elland Road a fortress in the Championship, won many games and many points... We have a great unity in the club and a great bond with the supporters. They can be second to none... They're one of the biggest assets."

Eddie Howe (Newcastle United)

• On his team's injury situation: Howe delivered "relatively good news" on Joelinton and Tonali, but confirmed Joelinton will miss the game. He added that Tonali is "battling to be fit."
• On playing at Elland Road: "I love going to Elland Road - it is a stadium full of emotion, and we'll need to use that emotion this weekend."

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

• The Independent: "Newcastle fans will count themselves as unlucky not to have a win so far this season... Howe's side will journey south in a confident mood, assured of their own performances while having also seen Leeds' own defensive weaknesses last week." They note Newcastle have won their last eight Premier League games against promoted sides.
• BBC Sport: Paul Merson believes this is a game Newcastle can get their season back on track. "If Leeds come out and try to play their football at the Emirates [sic], the game will really open up for Arsenal's [sic] quality to shine through. If Leeds had lost to Everton, they would have opted to sit back but now this game is more like a free-hit to them... I'm backing Viktor Gyökeres [sic] to score... that won't be the case against Leeds." Merson's analysis seems to confuse this match with the one against Arsenal.
• The Guardian: The Guardian's analysis highlights Newcastle's tactical approach under Eddie Howe as being "stifling" for opponents. The article points out that Leeds's commitment to Farke's high-pressing, attacking style could be a double-edged sword: "it could create chances, but also leave them vulnerable to Newcastle's swift counter-attacks."
• Sports Mole: "Leeds will always back themselves in front of the Elland Road faithful and will hope to take advantage of Newcastle potentially missing a number of key players. However, the Magpies are still capable of fielding a strong lineup that should have enough quality to get the better of the Whites." They predict a 2-1 win for Newcastle.

Head-to-Head

Newcastle has had the better of recent Premier League meetings, going unbeaten in their last four encounters with Leeds (W1 D3). The last time the two clubs met at Elland Road was in May 2023, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Competition: Premier League

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025

Kickoff: 5:30 PM BST

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London

Team News

Leeds United

• Leeds has suffered a massive blow with the confirmed absence of captain Ethan Ampadu, who will be sidelined until after the international break with an MCL knee injury. He is expected to be replaced by Ilia Gruev.
• The good news for Leeds is the return of centre-back Jaka Bijol, who is now available for selection after serving a one-match suspension.
• New signing Noah Okafor may also make his debut from the bench, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to work toward full match fitness and could also feature.

Arsenal

• Arsenal will be without key attacker Kai Havertz, who has been ruled out with a knee injury. Manager Mikel Arteta stated they are still assessing the extent of the issue.
• There are also doubts over the fitness of defenders Ben White and Jurriën Timber, who missed parts of this week's training.
• Gabriel Jesus remains a long-term absentee with a knee injury.

Manager & Pundit Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the challenge of Arsenal: "I've been watching them, what they did in pre-season, what they did on Monday, what they did last year, in the manner that they did it. Big compliments to the way they play, to the coach. I'm sure they're going to put a really difficult match against us tomorrow."
• On his tactical approach: Farke has vowed that Leeds "won't sell out our DNA and park the bus. If you just try to defend, you have no chance to survive." He added that "It's our biggest test so far, we have also proven in the first game and also pre-season when we've faced sides like AC Milan or Man United or Villareal that we are competitive.”

Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)

• On Kai Havertz's injury: "He's certainly not fit for this match... We don't really know yet the extent of it... The worst scenario is that he cannot play tomorrow, I would love to have him fresh and available... but unfortunately, that is not going to be possible."
• On Viktor Gyökeres: "He's very, very enthusiastic. He trained really well this week... He looks in a really good place."

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

• The Athletic: The Athletic notes that Arsenal will be a difficult team to break down, particularly at home, where they are unbeaten in 42 Premier League matches against newly promoted sides. They believe Leeds' attacking philosophy under Daniel Farke could leave them exposed. They predict a controlled victory for the Gunners, likely without a high scoreline, pointing to Arsenal's solid defense and formidable home record.
• BBC Sport: The BBC provides two views from their pundits:
  • Chris Sutton: "I'm not surprised that Arsenal are being backed to score a few here, but I think Leeds will be difficult to play against. They will make it tough and I am going for a tight game." Sutton's official prediction is 4-0 to Arsenal, however, contradicting his initial analysis.
  • Paul Merson: "If Leeds come out and try to play their football at the Emirates, the game will really open up for Arsenal's quality to shine through. If Leeds had lost to Everton, they would have opted to sit back but now this game is more like a free-hit to them... I'm backing Viktor Gyökeres to score. He did not get any quality chances against Manchester United, but that won't be the case against Leeds." Merson predicts a 3-0 Arsenal win.
• The Guardian: The Guardian's analysis highlights that Arsenal's tactical approach under Mikel Arteta can be stifling for opponents. They note that even without key players like Kai Havertz, the Gunners have a wealth of attacking options. The article points to Leeds's commitment to Farke's high-pressing, attacking style as a potential double-edged sword: it could create chances, but also leave them vulnerable to Arsenal's swift counter-attacks. They suggest that Arsenal's formidable home record and their historical dominance over Leeds make a home win the most likely outcome.

Head-to-Head

Arsenal has an exceptional recent record against Leeds United, unbeaten in their last 14 meetings across all competitions, winning 12 and drawing two. The Gunners have won the last six in a row, including a convincing 4-1 victory when the clubs last met in April 2023.

Competition: Premier League

Date: Monday, August 18, 2025

Kickoff: 8:00 PM BST / 3:00 PM EST

Venue: Elland Road, Leeds

Team News

Leeds United

• Leeds will be without newly-signed centre-back Jaka Bijol, who is serving a one-match suspension.
• Manager Daniel Farke has stated he will make a late call on right-back Jayden Bogle, who is dealing with a hip flexor injury.
• Joel Piroe is expected to lead the line up front, with new striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin possibly starting from the bench as he's managed carefully after his recent transfer from Everton.

Everton

• The Toffees have a significant blow with key centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite ruled out after picking up a thigh injury in training.
• Vitalii Mykolenko, who limped off in a recent friendly, may be available, but new signing Adam Aznou could be in line for a debut at left-back.
• High-profile loan signing Jack Grealish and midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could also make their competitive debuts for Everton.

Manager Quotes

Daniel Farke (Leeds United)

• On the Elland Road factor: "For a newly-promoted side, it's crucial you have a really good home record... We have a great unity in the club and a great bond with the supporters. They can be second to none... They're one of the biggest assets."
• On transfer strategy: Farke admitted "There is no doubt we need reinforcements, especially in the offence. Dominic can't be the only step. We are on a good path, prepared for the first games and I hope when the transfer window is over we have a squad who is capable of fighting for being the first team who breaks this curse because we have one clear target to stay in this league."
• On Jack Harrison's return: "Jack is a proven Premier League player, a good age, top character, and hard working... Everyone has a chance, with good work, good performances, to win the trust of supporters back. Jack has already won the staff and players back because his behaviour was top class."

David Moyes (Everton)

• On his squad's depth: "We are pleased with the players we have added, but I am not pleased because I think I still need more. We want to continue to adding to what we have because we are short in certain areas. We have got some good business done but I would like more if possible."
• On new signing Jack Grealish: When asked if Grealish would start, Moyes joked, "You need to turn up and find out. That's what everyone needs to do." He did say Grealish "looks the same, big calves" and that he "can play in many positions."
• On Jarrad Branthwaite's injury: An irritated Moyes refused to give a prognosis, stating, "I'm sure the insider inside the club will give that out. I'm sure of that. We've gotta find out who is giving the news out."

Head-to-Head

Everton has had the better of recent Premier League meetings, going unbeaten in their last five encounters with Leeds (W3, D2). This will be the first league match between the two clubs since Leeds' promotion back to the top flight.

Pundit Predictions & Analysis

• The Athletic: The Athletic notes that Everton have a poor record in opening games against newly-promoted sides and that their defense will be weaker without the injured Jarrad Branthwaite. They believe Leeds' attacking momentum and the home crowd will give them an edge.
• BBC Sport: The BBC provides two contrasting views from their pundits:
  • Chris Sutton: "Leeds boss Daniel Farke is a very underrated manager and his teams always carry a threat - it is their defence I am worried about this season. They will have a real go at Everton under the floodlights and Elland Road is going to be rocking, so this is a tough opening for the Toffees... It would not surprise me at all if Dominic Calvert-Lewin scores on Monday and gets his new team a point against his old one - wouldn't that be typical?"
  • Paul Merson: "Leeds will be looking at this fixture as a must-win game... If Leeds are unable to win on home turf this weekend, you cannot help but wonder how they are going to get points week in, week out!... In the end, I believe Everton will have too much for Leeds. This is the gulf in class you are up against in the Premier League if you're a newly-promoted team."
• The Guardian: The Guardian's analysis highlights that David Moyes' team is more tactically rigid than the free-flowing style Jack Grealish is used to, but believes the new signings could make Everton a more fluid attacking side. The article also notes that Leeds' last eight opening-day matches have produced a staggering 39 goals, suggesting a high-scoring affair.

We are so back. Will be having these pre-match threads going forward. Please discuss all of the weekends action here plus starting XI predictions and thoughts going into the game.

As always we welcome any suggestions and wants going into the season. Still learning what to do here so interested to hear what people want from the sub and us.

Massive game, MOT ALAW.

Reposted from https://www.reddit.com/r/LeedsUnited/s/uEW7GeOasq