Patrick Dorgu was one of Manchester United’s most impressive performers during their pre-season opener against Leeds and he spoke to club media after the game.
Manchester United began their pre-season campaign with a 0-0 draw against Premier League rivals Leeds United in Stockholm, Sweden, over the weekend.
Ruben Amorim’s side came under early pressure but gradually settled and began to assert themselves. Chido Obi had a couple of half-chances, while new signing Matheus Cunha stood out with his energy and attacking intent.
The first half ended goalless despite some encouraging play, and Amorim made wholesale changes at the break, introducing 11 new players — including Kobbie Mainoo, Leny Yoro, and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu.
United looked more composed in the second half, and Dorgu, in particular, impressed with his composure, pace, and willingness to get forward from the left flank.
Leeds grew into the game as well, but United pressed for a late winner, creating several chances. However, neither side could find the breakthrough, and the match finished in a stalemate.
Dorgu sends perfect message after United vs Leeds
After seeing Diego Leon impress on his debut during the first half, Dorgu seemed like he wanted to make sure to prove himself to Amorim and supporters afterwards in the second period.
The Danish international was a standout performer and linked up well with Mason Mount on the left side, but going forward, he is likely going to need to strike up a partnership with new signing Cunha.
One of Dorgu’s biggest problems during his first six months at Old Trafford was the lack of relationship with Alejandro Garnacho, who regularly played as the left-sided no.10.
Now, however, the 20-year-old is aware that he must start building that connection with Cunha over the course of pre-season.
“It’s good to play a competitive game,” Dorgu told club media after full-time. “To feel the ball and to feel the teammates on the pitch. [It is important] to build the connections with the new players that are coming in. So, it was good.”
Dorgu knows he must strike relationship with Cunha
It is easy to forget that Dorgu is still only 20 years of age. He arrived at the club in January and has had some critics since that point, but he clearly has a lot of potential.
The problem last season was that he played alongside a fellow 20-year-old in Garnacho on that left flank. He is now set to play with and learn from the experienced Cunha, who managed to link-up well with Leon during the first half against Leeds.
Dorgu is more than aware that he needs to strike a relationship with the Brazilian on the pitch and will be hoping to work with him a lot on the pre-season tour.
That should give the youngster an advantage heading into the new season which he simply didn’t have last term.
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