Long misunderstood, sometimes criticized, Patrick Dorgu has experienced many a roller coaster since his arrival at Manchester United. Recruited to everyone’s surprise in the winter of 2025 for nearly 35 million euros from Lecce, the 21-year-old Dane has perhaps just signed the benchmark match of his young career in the Red Devils jersey. Against Manchester City, during the derby of the 22nd day of the Premier League, the versatile corridor player not only delivered a total performance, but above all scored the break goal. The one that symbolizes an expected revenge.
When Manchester United formalized the arrival of Patrick Dorgu for 5 and a half years, skepticism was immediate. Little known to the general public, little media exposure in Serie A with Lecce, the native of Copenhagen did not display a CV worthy of such an investment. In Italy, his 57 professional matches and his honest performances, without being spectacular, did not suggest a transfer of such magnitude. Yet the Mancunian leaders persisted. Marco Giampaolo, then coach of the Italian club, was full of praise: “He’s a fantastic player and a great person. He was already thinking about Old Trafford. »
Quite complicated beginnings
Dorgu discovered Manchester United in a difficult context, between media pressure and disproportionate expectations. Quickly established by Ruben Amorim, he nevertheless struggles to convince. An expulsion in his fourth match, against Ipswich Town, crystallized the doubts. After that, the Portuguese did not hesitate to criticize him publicly, pointing out a form of nervousness with the ball. “We feel the anxiety every time Patrick touches the ball”blurted Amorim. Far from bragging, the Danish international took it in, worked and continued to make a series of starts, until playing in the Europa League final. A proof of confidence despite everything.
Despite the controversy surrounding his transfer, Patrick Dorgu was gradually settling into the Mancunian rotation. Already 20 matches played during the 2024-2025 financial year, including 18 as a starter, then 23 appearances already this season. Able to play as a left side, piston, winger or even right side, he takes advantage of his versatility to impose himself, gradually putting the competition on the bench. Under Michael Carrick, new coach of the Red Devils, his role is evolving further, higher up the pitch, with more offensive responsibilities. This season, Dorgu has 2 goals and 3 assists.
Finally a reference match
But it is in the face of the hated rival that Dorgu definitively changes dimension. Starting in the derby against Manchester City (2-0), he delivered an XXL performance. Untenable offensively, impeccable defensively, he tormented Rico Lewis for 90 minutes. In the 76th minute, he crucified the Citizens on a perfect serve from Matheus Cunha. A decisive goal, the most important of his career in the Premier League. The figures confirm the impact: 1 goal, 1 key pass, 10 duels won, 9 balls recovered, 100% successful long passes. A recital.
After the meeting, Michael Carrick did not hide his satisfaction: “Amad and Dorgu were fantastic in both directions of the game. Everything went as we hoped. » On social networks, supporters are ignited. Compared to Ji-Sung Park for his volume of play and his state of mind, Dorgu stands out as an unexpected darling. He who recently affirmed “don’t worry about his position, as long as he plays” now embodies the future of the Mancunian left corridor. Barely time to savor when the next shock looms. Arsenal awaits Manchester United, and Patrick Dorgu is already showing his ambitions: “We are going there to take the three points. » With this reference derby, the Dane has definitely changed his status.
