Leeds have been here before after a humbling 6-2 defeat at Old Trafford last season, and there's still plenty of cause to be optimistic about the campaign ahead.

Leeds Walk Straight into Red Devils' Trap

It was a painful second-half for Leeds supporters to watch as the fleeting high of Luke Ayling's wonder strike was quickly dispelled with four consecutive goals from the hosts. Leeds, who are 5/1 in the football odds to finish in the Premier League's top-six this season, seemed to play straight into their rival's hands after the stunning equaliser. Many football predictions would confirm Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have the pace and precision to hit teams on the counter-attack, and Leeds seemed to get ahead of themselves after Ayling's goal. After the final whistle, manager Marcelo Bielsa took responsibility for the defeat, as his side left Old Trafford disappointed once more.

It's another heavy defeat to take, which goes along with some of the bigger losses Leeds suffered on their travels last season. Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal all enjoyed convincing wins over the Whites in the last term. Yet still, Leeds managed to finish in ninth place in the table and will have ambitions on improving on that position this time around.

Returning Cavalry to Shore Up Side

As Manchester United players glided through the centre of the park, the absence of England international Kalvin Phillips was abundantly clear. Bielsa deemed Phillips unready to start the encounter, and with the game practically done in the second half saw no reason to risk the holding midfielder. Phillips enjoyed an outstanding European Championship with his country over the summer, and the return of the 'Yorkshire Pirlo' will give Leeds a much-needed boost.

The Old Trafford defeat once again highlighted Leeds' reliance on Phillips in that pivotal role, and once again there were cries from supporters to bring in more strength in depth in that area this summer. Meanwhile, Leeds can also look forward to having Spain international Diego Llorente back in the heart of the Whites' defence. Llorente enjoyed a strong end to the last campaign but missed out on the trip to Old Trafford after a knock on the preseason. Leeds have good competition in the centre-back roles this term, and Llorente's return will be more than welcomed.

Summer signing Junior Firpo is also working his way back to full fitness after being named on the bench at Old Trafford. Not only will the former Barcelona man bring pace and an attacking threat down the left flank, but he'll also free up Stuart Dallas to play further up the field in his favoured midfield role.

While Leeds won't have enjoyed the second-half in Manchester, it might end up being the shot in the arm the squad need for what is an intriguing second season in the Premier League for Bielsa's side.