According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Sunday, October 18, 2026, head coach Michael Carrick has made several adjustments, with Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo unavailable for the important fixture.

United enter the match under considerable pressure after going five consecutive games without a victory in all competitions. Their disappointing 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid further intensified scrutiny of Carrick, while Martinez’s interview following the match generated significant discussion.

The Argentine defender reportedly criticised the club’s leadership over its summer transfer activity and questioned the commitment of some teammates. His comments allegedly created tension within the dressing room and prompted discussions with senior officials.

Martinez has since apologised and reportedly received a financial penalty. Carrick has also indicated that the matter has been addressed, suggesting that the squad is now focused on securing a positive result against Leeds.

The defender will partner Harry Maguire in central defence, with Maguire returning to the starting lineup in place of Ayden Heaven. Leny Yoro is expected to feature at right-back, while Diogo Dalot will cover the left side because of Shaw’s absence.

Senne Lammens retains his position between the posts. Manuel Santos and Carlos Baleba have been selected in midfield, while Bruno Fernandes will operate on the right flank instead of his usual attacking midfield position. Youri Tielemans and Amad Diallo will also support the team’s attacking efforts.

Bryan Mbeumo is expected to lead the attack from the central position. Meanwhile, Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford will begin the match on the substitutes’ bench, giving Carrick additional attacking alternatives if Manchester United need to change their approach.

Benjamin Sesko, Patrick Dorgu, Manuel Ugarte and Tom Heaton remain unavailable because of injury concerns. Mainoo and Shaw are also missing from the confirmed selection, further limiting the manager’s options.

Manchester United will be eager to end their disappointing run and restore confidence with a strong performance at Elland Road. The result could prove important for Carrick as he attempts to improve the team’s form and ease the growing pressure surrounding his leadership.

Manchester United Starting Lineup:

Lammens; Yoro, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Santos, Baleba; Fernandes, Tielemans, Amad; Mbeumo.

Substitutes: Darlow, Amass, De Ligt, Mazraoui, Mount, Cunha, Lacey, Rashford, Zirkzee.