DORGU'S UNEXPECTED ROLE RAISES QUESTIONS
Attacking the East Stand in last Friday night’s FA Cup victory over Leicester City, Patrick Dorgu’s positioning came as a surprise. Instead of settling into the left wing-back role United had seemingly brought him in for, the January signing sprinted over to the right flank.
With Diogo Dalot, a natural right-back, continuing at left wing-back, many supporters were left puzzled by Ruben Amorim’s tactical choices.
Despite the unexpected deployment, Dorgu was one of United’s brighter performers in an otherwise sluggish first-half display. The 20-year-old showcased his athleticism and attacking intent, maintaining an 82% pass accuracy, winning half of his duels, and making key defensive contributions. He even registered a shot that, while off target, hinted at his attacking instincts. However, Amorim opted to substitute him at half-time, replacing him with Alejandro Garnacho—a move that played a key role in turning the game around.
Dorgu’s position remained a talking point post-match, with Amorim defending his decision. “He played a lot of time at Lecce on the right and the left,” the United boss explained. “That is one of the characteristics we pay attention to a lot, to have a player like him. He was a little anxious with his first touch, but he did well. He had pace, strength, and he will improve a lot. We as a team need to play better to help these new guys perform at the right level.”
According to Transfermarkt, Dorgu featured on the right in 12 of his 23 Lecce appearances this season, validating Amorim’s tactical flexibility. While many expected him to solidify United’s left flank, the manager appears to have a different short-term vision. With Amorim preferring a left-footed player in the right-sided No.10 role, Amad Diallo seems likely to remain there, meaning Dorgu could continue operating as a right wing-back in the coming months.
Amorim has kept the door open for Amad to transition into a deeper role, but for now, his attacking qualities are being utilised further up the pitch. Meanwhile, Dorgu’s future position remains fluid, though long-term expectations suggest he will eventually shift back to the left flank. United have lacked a consistent left-footed presence on that side, and it’s an area the club is keen to strengthen in the summer transfer window.
One name already linked is Geovany Quenda, the highly rated Sporting Lisbon teenager who, like Dorgu, is capable of playing on either side. If United secure his signature, it could allow for a reshuffle, potentially placing Dorgu back on his natural left side. For now, though, Amorim appears to have a clear idea of how he wants to use the Danish international.
If Dorgu’s adaptation period goes as planned, he could soon become a key piece in Amorim’s system. Whether he stays on the right or eventually shifts left, his versatility and dynamism offer United something they have lacked in recent seasons.