When Manchester United signed Patrick Dorgu from Lecce in the January transfer window, the primary objective was clear: to address the glaring issues at left wing-back. However, as fate would have it, the 20-year-old Dane could now find himself playing a pivotal role in filling the void left by Amad Diallo’s injury setback. With Amad ruled out for the remainder of the season, Dorgu’s versatility and attacking prowess make him a compelling candidate to step up in an unexpected position – the right flank.
A Versatile Talent with a Point to Prove
Patrick Dorgu’s arrival at Old Trafford was met with cautious optimism. Known for his pace, technical ability, and adaptability, the young full-back had already made a name for himself in Serie A with Lecce. What many may not have realised, however, is that Dorgu spent a significant portion of his time in Italy playing as a right winger.
Of his 25 appearances for Lecce this season, 13 came on the right wing, where he scored all three of his league goals. The remaining 12 appearances were split between left wing-back and left midfield, showcasing his ability to operate effectively on both sides of the pitch.
Speaking after his United debut at right wing-back, Dorgu emphasised his comfort in either role.
“I don’t really mind, I can play both sides,” Dorgu said. “I have played a lot on the right for my old team, and I played on the left also. So, I’m comfortable in both positions.”
This versatility has not gone unnoticed by Ruben Amorim, who has already shown a willingness to deploy Dorgu in unconventional roles.
Amorim’s Tactical Vision: A Left-Footed Threat
One of the hallmarks of Amorim’s tactical setup is the use of a left-footed player in attack. This preference is rooted in the desire to create different passing angles, add unpredictability to the team’s approach, and provide a natural option for cutting inside onto the stronger foot. Amad Diallo, with his left-footed brilliance, had become a key component of this system before his injury.
With Amad sidelined, United are not only losing a potent goal threat but also a unique skillset that is difficult to replicate. This is where Dorgu’s potential comes into play. While primarily signed as a wing-back, his experience as a right winger and his ability to cut inside onto his dominant left foot make him an intriguing option to fill the void.
Amorim himself has defended the decision to play Dorgu on the right, citing the player’s experience in that role during his time at Lecce.
“No, he played a lot of times in Lecce on the right,” Amorim said when questioned about Dorgu’s positioning. “That is one of the characteristics that we pay attention to a lot, to have a player like him. He has space, he has strength, he’s going to improve a lot. And we, as a team, we need to play better to help these new guys to perform at the right level. But the position, and you can see in Wyscout that he’s played on both sides.”
A Tactical Wildcard for Amorim
Dorgu’s versatility offers Amorim a tactical wildcard as United navigate the remainder of the season. While Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui provide solid options at right wing-back, Dorgu’s ability to play further forward could see him deployed as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the striker.
In this role, Dorgu could replicate Amad’s tendency to drift inside, creating space for overlapping runs from the wing-backs while posing a direct goal threat himself. His pace and dribbling ability make him a nightmare for defenders, and his experience in Serie A suggests he has the technical quality to thrive in a more advanced position.
Moreover, Dorgu’s adaptability allows Amorim to experiment with different formations and tactical setups. Whether as a wing-back, a winger, or an attacking midfielder, the Dane’s presence adds a layer of unpredictability to United’s play.
The Bigger Picture: A Silver Lining in Amad’s Absence
While Amad’s injury is undoubtedly a blow to United’s attacking options, it also presents an opportunity for Dorgu to establish himself as a key figure in Amorim’s plans. The 20-year-old’s ability to play on both flanks, combined with his attacking instincts, makes him a valuable asset in a squad that has often lacked depth and versatility this season.
For Dorgu, this could be the chance to prove that he is more than just a defensive reinforcement. His performances in the coming weeks could determine whether he remains a utility player or evolves into a genuine attacking threat for the Red Devils.
Conclusion: A Solution in Plain Sight
Patrick Dorgu’s arrival at Manchester United was initially seen as a solution to the team’s left wing-back woes. However, his versatility and attacking pedigree have opened up a new possibility – filling the void left by Amad Diallo on the right flank.
As Ruben Amorim looks to navigate the challenges of a demanding season, Dorgu’s ability to adapt and perform in multiple roles could prove invaluable. Whether as a wing-back, a winger, or an attacking midfielder, the young Dane has the potential to make a significant impact in the weeks ahead.
For United fans, Dorgu’s emergence as a potential Amad replacement is a reminder that sometimes, the solution to a problem is already within the squad. The question now is whether he can seize this opportunity and become a key figure in Amorim’s revolution at Old Trafford.
What do you think about Patrick Dorgu’s potential role in Amad’s absence? Should Amorim deploy him as a winger or stick to his original role as a wing-back? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or on our social media channels.
