Dorgu shines as Ruben Amorim's belated 'Christmas gift'

As Ruben Amorim's first signing as MU's head coach, Patrick Dorgu had previously struggled with inconsistency, but the game versus Newcastle could represent a breakthrough for him. This is highly awaited by MU, Amorim, and Dorgu alike because it would help the club avoid investing funds in this position.

In the early hours of December 27, Dorgu’s classy finish in the 24th minute helped MU overcome the tough challenge posed by Newcastle. Dorgu had to wait until his 38th match and 31st shot to score for the Old Trafford club. And he did it memorably. On Sky Sports commentary, Roy Keane praised the Danish defender’s strike as "very impressive," while fans compared it to Zidane’s legendary Champions League goal.

In fact, Dorgu revealed his scoring ability during the World Cup qualifiers last month when he netted for Denmark against Scotland. While highly rated in the Danish national team, he had yet to meet expectations at MU. Over the past six months, Dorgu disappointed at left wing-back, showing inexperience in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system. Of course, he wasn’t always disappointing; he had decent and good performances, but lacked consistency. Amorim has been working hard to improve this aspect in his protégé.

Against Newcastle, Amorim deployed a traditional four-man defense for the first time, shifting Dorgu to the right flank to replace Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, both away for the CAN Cup. The Danish player did not let Amorim down.

Besides scoring, Dorgu played confidently and nearly provided an assist when Benjamin Sesko narrowly missed from a good position. Defensively, he bravely blocked Fabian Schar’s shot. Whenever MU needed someone to surge forward and stretch Newcastle’s defense, the former Lecce player was the man. His final sprint came in the 6th minute of added time, when most MU players were exhausted but fighting to hold the lead. This demonstrated Dorgu’s tremendous determination and endurance. Moreover, this style aligns with what Amorim expects. He doesn’t require the whole team to play spectacularly but insists on precise execution of every pass and shot. Simply put, players must take responsibility for their passes, shots, or just fulfilling their roles.

For Ruben Amorim, this victory is more than just three points. It signifies a shift in tactical thinking. The Portuguese coach has shown flexibility by being willing to adapt when necessary. Recent matches, including the one against Newcastle, have demonstrated this. He spoke specifically about Dorgu as follows: "Perhaps a game with many transitions like today suits his (referring to Dorgu’s) dribbling skills. When you place him higher up the pitch, his responsibilities change and he gains more freedom, including the liberty to lose the ball. I believe this helps Dorgu perform better."

Patrick Dorgu himself couldn’t hide his excitement over the memorable goal, also revealing that encouragement from coach Ruben Amorim was key: "It was a really good finish. Honestly, I didn’t expect to pull off such a shot (smiling contentedly). Scoring my first goal at this stadium feels amazing. I followed coach Ruben Amorim’s instructions closely, focusing on building and reinforcing my confidence.

I must say, I think I performed well today. In that moment, I just concentrated on the ball, saw it drop perfectly, and shot immediately. I have practiced this finishing technique extensively in training, and I believe those efforts paid off today."

This might be Dorgu’s best performance in a Man United shirt so far. More importantly, it relieves Amorim and validates his personnel choices. Up to now, players like Sesko, Cunha, and Mbeumo have met expectations in different ways. Dorgu is no exception. In fact, he faces even greater pressure as he is the first signing Amorim specifically requested from the MU board.

Overall, at 21 years old, Dorgu is closing 2025 with improving form. He has shown that he can get even better and needs a clear development path to fully realize his potential instead of remaining just a "prospect." Only then will MU worry less and avoid spending money to upgrade this flank. If Dorgu continues performing well on the right, Amad Diallo and Mbeumo might feel more competition for the starting spot upon their return.

As for Amorim, he has given MU fans a belated Christmas present. MU supporters are happy and satisfied because, despite the current squad’s weaknesses, the team’s spirit is precious and gives hope. Now, MU must use this as a springboard to move forward. The top-four target is close, but MU must fight hard to truly claim it.