In a pivotal match on Boxing Day, Patrick Dorgu showcased his talent as he played a crucial role in Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford. Starting on the right wing, Dorgu’s performance not only contributed to the team’s success but also marked a significant moment in his career, as he scored the winning goal in a game where United was missing seven senior players.
Dorgu’s Impact on the Game
Dorgu, who had previously been accustomed to a wing-back role, found the transition to a more advanced position “easy.” He expressed confidence in his ability, saying, “I’ve done that at my old team as well, so it’s nothing new to me.” His all-action display was instrumental in securing a clean sheet for United, who were striving for just their second shutout of the season.
Reflecting on his performance, Dorgu noted, “It’s the same [as wing-back], just you come inside to your stronger foot, so sometimes it’s even easier to attack and connect with the team-mates.” His goal, a well-executed strike, was a product of his dedication to improving his shooting during training, and he was pleased to see it pay off in this critical match.
Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges
Following the victory, Dorgu acknowledged that this was his best day in a Manchester United shirt, saying, “Yeah, 100 per cent, really happy with the goal and the three points today.” The win was especially significant as it marked United’s first victory at Old Trafford in two months, and Dorgu emphasized the importance of continuing this momentum. “We need to win the next game as well to build more confidence,” he stated.
Manager Ruben Amorim had previously commented on Dorgu’s struggles with confidence, suggesting that the pressures of playing for United had affected his performance. Dorgu took these remarks to heart, using them as motivation to improve. “The manager spoke about my confidence a few weeks ago, so I just looked inside and tried to understand what he meant,” he explained. “And I just tried to build myself up.” The support from teammates, including discussions with Bruno Fernandes, has also helped him regain his confidence.
Dorgu’s journey since joining United in February for a fee of up to €35 million (£29.3 million) has seen its ups and downs. He has faced the unique pressures that come with being a player at such a high-profile club. However, his recent performances suggest he is beginning to find his footing and make his mark in the team.
As Manchester United prepares for their upcoming match against bottom-placed Wolves, Dorgu is determined to maintain his momentum and solidify his place in the squad. “We got players at AFCON and injured players, so this is my chance to show I belong in this team,” he concluded. With a newfound confidence and an impactful performance behind him, Dorgu looks poised to continue his ascent in the competitive environment of Premier League football.
