The 202526 campaign was supposed to be Patrick Dorgu’s breakout season.
When he arrived at Manchester United during the winter transfer window, many billed him as the ideal left wing-back signing.
The Denmark international had impressed at Lecce in the first half of last season, recording 16 progressive carries leading to a shot, the highest among all defenders in Serie A during that period.
And while he was not an instant hit at United, he showed glimpses of brilliance.
By the end of last season across Europe’s top five leagues, Dorgu ranked as the under-21 defender with the highest progressive carries per 90 minutes (4.38).
Patrick Dorgus game by numbers vs. Real Sociedad:
100% successful take-ons
100% tackles won
100% aerial duels won
75% ground duels won
9 touches in the oppositions box
6 fouls won
5 shots
2 clearances
1 penalty won
Brings balance and quality. pic.twitter.com/gdcfShvuff
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) March 13, 2025
While some may point out that those carries did not translate into goals or assists, there is an argument that had United’s attackers been on his wavelength and reacted to his crosses, he might have racked up a healthy number of assists.
Summer 2024: signs of promise Dorgu caught the eye during United’s US pre-season tour, with his performance against AFC Bournemouth in the 41 Premier League Summer Series win being the standout, earning him a 9/10 rating from The Peoples Person.
Out in the summer ’25 tour, the winter signing was ticking every box, with some tipping him for a breakout season.
With United’s attack revamped, a more compatible left-sided partner in Matheus Cunha, a strong pre-season behind him, and those teasing crosses he kept whipping into the box last term, the stage looked set for Dorgu to flourish in the 202526 season.
But it has not happened. Dorgu has looked bang average.
A poor start In matches, he consistently receives balls in strategic areas, much like Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes do for PSG, after making clever runs between the lines and finding space to attack.
Yet the Dane has fumbled his chances, failing to influence United’s attacking play as Amorim demands from his wing-backs. His final ball has let him down.
He should be improving, but unfortunately, he has not.
Despite being one of Amorim’s default starters, the Portuguese manager cannot afford to overlook the left wing-back’s struggles. He must act and act now.
It is time to take Dorgu out of the firing line and reduce his role.
Shaw the Solution Luke Shaw, solid as he has been at left-sided centre-back, could offer far more at wing-back.
He remains one of the few Red Devils who can pick a pass, and few in the squad can rival his delivery.
Shaw himself is pushing for the left wing-back role. Speaking to Sky Sports recently, he said:
“Currently, I’m playing left centre-back and I’m content, but I still see myself more of a wing-back. The manager knows this, but he’s the one who decides. I’m happy to play anywhere.”
Shaw could bring stability to the left wing, adding the threat United have lacked at wing-back, while also not being a liability at centre-back.
Dorgu still has time Dorgu, for his part, still has work to do. He must sharpen his finishing, refine his crossing, and polish his technique.
With more graft on the training ground and cameo appearances to rebuild his confidence, he could rediscover his spark.
Still young, the Dane may be enduring a rough patch, but his talent is undeniable.
The dynamic prospect Breaking The Lines’ analysis of his style, around the time of his headline Old Trafford switch, remains a compelling defence of his abilities.
BTL described him as:
“A dynamic left back who loves to carry the ball up the pitch, cut inside and combine with forwards, and who has the agility to manoeuvre his way through tight spaces. Dorgu’s dribbling ability is top-drawer, and it could very well see him operate as a wing-back or even as a winger in the near future.”
For sure, if Dorgu reaches his ceiling, he could be the real deal.
But for now, Amorim must shield him from scrutiny, let Shaw steady the ship, and give Dorgu the space to reinvent himself rather than risk an unceremonious exit like Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Ironically, just as Kobbie Mainoo is said to be learning the No.8 role from Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu could do worse than learn from Shaw.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
