MU recruits Patrick Dorgu, gives Park Ji-Sung’s iconic No. 13 shirt. British media expect this to be an important deal under Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United closed the January transfer window with a notable contract named Patrick Dorgu from Lecce for a fee of £25 million. This is MU’s biggest deal in the winter market and is expected to solve the problem on the left wing of the Red Devils.
In the context that MU is facing a personnel crisis in the full-back position due to Luke Shaw’s prolonged injury, Dorgu is considered a reasonable choice for Ruben Amorim. However, many opinions are still concerned about recruiting a player who is very young and has little experience playing at the top level.
Dorgu – The quality of a modern defender
Patrick Dorgu, 20 years old, came from the youth system of Nordsjaelland before joining Lecce. Dorgu is not only a pure left-back but can also play flexibly in many different positions, including right-back, winger and even central midfielder.
Prior to his move to Old Trafford, Dorgu has played in all of Lecce’s matches in Serie A this season, showing stability and high adaptability. Express Sport journalist Fraser Watson commented:
“Like Park Ji-Sung, Dorgu can play in many positions, possesses a strong physical foundation and always gives 100% on the pitch. If he can stick around for 7 years and contribute effectively like Park, it will be a worthwhile deal for MU.”
Good speed, abundant physical foundation, and solid defensive skills make Dorgu a promising choice. Not only is Dorgu effective in defending, he is also good at supporting the attack, suitable for Amorim’s pressing and ball-control style of play.
Can Dorgu solve MU’s problems?
Under Ruben Amorim, MU is still having big problems in defense, especially the full-back position. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui have not shown stability, while Luke Shaw is constantly suffering from long-term injuries.
Dorgu can provide a sustainable and long-term option, helping MU escape the situation of having to use temporary solutions. Having a young, potential defender who can adapt to many tactical systems gives Amorim more flexible options to adjust the squad.
In addition, with MU not signing any strikers in January, the attacking ability of the defenders wing becomes even more important. Dorgu is expected to contribute to the attacking play on the wing, helping to create more opportunities for the attack.
Shirt number 13 and the hope of recreating the image of Park Ji-Sung
Patrick Dorgu was given shirt number 13, the number that once belonged to Park Ji-Sung – one of the most important players of MU under Sir Alex Ferguson. Park is remembered for his fighting spirit, versatility and ability to contribute comprehensively to the team.
Dorgu receiving this shirt number makes fans expect that he can recreate the image of Park Ji-Sung, becoming a key factor, working tirelessly on the field. Although this comparison is a bit early, if Dorgu can develop his potential, this will be a promising deal for MU.
Dorgu is an interesting and strategic contract of MU. He has the potential to become a quality full-back, suited to Ruben Amorim’s modern style of play. However, adapting to the Premier League environment and the pressure at United will be a big challenge.
If he can adapt and maintain a stable performance, Dorgu could become an important part of Amorim’s system, helping United improve their defensive and attacking abilities. At £25 million, this could be a very worthwhile deal if Dorgu plays to his full potential.
