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Chris Watson

'Gunslinging' - Pundits deliver their Leeds United v Man City predictions

Leeds United take on Manchester City in the Premier League this weekend.

Marcelo Bielsa and Pep Guardiola go head-to-head at Elland Road on Saturday (5.30pm).

Leeds have made a solid start to life back in the top flight following their promotion from the Championship.

Bielsa's men were only narrowly edged out by champions Liverpool in their opening match and since then have claimed victories over Sheffield United and Fulham.

Guardiola's side, meanwhile, started their league campaign with a win over Wolves but they were humbled 5-2 at home to Leicester City last weekend.

They did get back to winning ways in midweek, though, by beating Burnley 3-0 in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

So, how will Leeds get on against City?

BBC Sport pundit Mark Lawrenson is predicting a narrow 2-1 victory for the visitors.

"Leeds are still strengthening their squad but the one thing you can be sure about with all of their signings is that they can run," said the former Liverpool man.

"A pre-requisite for all of their players seems to be that they can cover some ground.

"Marcelo Bielsa's side have been fabulous so far and it is going to be fascinating to see how he approaches this game against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.

"Guardiola will have a plan too, of course, but both coaches have a mutual admiration of each other.

"City looked unprepared in their defeat by Leicester last weekend, which is most unusual for them under Guardiola - I am pretty sure it won't happen again here.

"I am expecting it to be a very good game. A lot of teams show massive respect to City and sit deep but I don't think Leeds will do that."

Former Liverpool and Manchester United striker Michael Owen is predicting a 4-1 defeat for Leeds.

"Leeds have been a tremendous watch, so far," said Owen in his latest BetVictor blog.

"You must admire their gunslinging approach to games and if they can rattle Manchester City with their high press, I wouldn’t put it past Bielsa’s men to get something out of the game.

"However, if any team can beat that press it’s Manchester City and that could lead to a difficult evening for the home team.

"4-1 to the Citizens is my prediction."

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