Leeds United begin their second consecutive Premier League campaign at the City Ground on Saturday afternoon, looking to build on a solid return to the top flight under Daniel Farke.
A 14th-placed finish and an FA Cup semi-final represented a strong first season back among the elite. Farke has strengthened significantly since, and Saturday offers the first opportunity to see several of his new signings in competitive action.
Leeds United team news
Gabriel Gudmundsson and Willy Gnonto are both ruled out with thigh injuries, while goalkeeper Lucas Perri is nursing a similar problem of his own. Ilia Gruev, a long-term absentee with a knee issue, has partially reintegrated into training but his involvement in the matchday squad remains unclear.
Farke confirmed on Thursday that everyone else, including recent signing Nico Elvedi, is available for selection. Noah Okafor missed the entire pre-season schedule after being given an extended break following Switzerland’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals, and his fitness levels will be worth monitoring in the coming weeks.
James Trafford, signed for a club-record £40m from Manchester City, is expected to make his full debut in goal. Tarik Muharemović, a £34m arrival from Sassuolo, is set to start on the left of a back three alongside Joe Rodon and Jaka Bijol, with Rodon having signed a new contract this week.
Jayden Bogle, also freshly tied to a new deal, and James Justin are expected to start as wing-backs, with Justin covering the left in Gudmundsson’s absence. Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach anchor central midfield. Harry Wilson, who arrived from Fulham as Craven Cottage’s reigning Player of the Season, and Brenden Aaronson operate behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who leads the line.
Leeds United predicted lineup
Leeds United possible starting XI (3-4-2-1): Trafford; Rodon, Bijol, Muharemovic; Bogle, Ampadu, Stach, Justin; Wilson, Aaronson; Calvert-Lewin
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League match kicks off at 15:00 BST on Saturday, 22 August 2026.
How to watch Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United?
The match falls under the Premier League’s traditional 3pm Saturday blackout and will not be broadcast live in the UK.
Read more – Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United – Match preview and team news
See also – Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United – Predicted lineup and team news