One year on from his much-discussed move to Manchester United, Patrick Dorgu continues to divide opinion among supporters and pundits alike.
The Danish winger, now 21, has experienced an uneven first season at Old Trafford, with periods of inconsistency followed by encouraging signs of growth.
In recent weeks, however, there has been a noticeable uptick in his performances, particularly since he has been deployed in a more advanced and attack-minded role.
Looking back at the circumstances surrounding Dorgu’s transfer, Lecce president Saverio Sticchi Damiani has openly admitted that the deal caught the Italian club off guard.
Lecce had not planned to part ways with any of their key players during the January window, but Manchester United’s approach changed everything.
According to Damiani, United’s offer of €30 million, combined with their firm stance on completing the transfer immediately, proved impossible to turn down. The financial weight of the proposal and the urgency behind it ultimately forced Lecce’s hand.
Despite the significant fee involved, Damiani suggested that the sporting impact of Dorgu’s departure was not as damaging as many might assume.
At Lecce, Dorgu was frequently used on the right wing, a role that, in the president’s view, did not fully showcase or maximize his abilities.
Damiani explained that this positional limitation meant the club was not extracting the best version of the player, making his exit easier to manage from a tactical standpoint.
In addition, Lecce already had a solution lined up.
Mattia Pierotti was ready to step into the role, which further reduced the disruption caused by Dorgu’s sale.
As a result, Damiani described the Denmark international as “paradoxically replaceable” at that stage of his career, despite his obvious talent and potential.
From afar, Damiani has continued to follow Dorgu’s progress in England, and he now believes Manchester United are beginning to unlock what Lecce could not.
He has praised the way the winger is currently being used, noting that a return to his natural position higher up the pitch has made a clear difference.
In Damiani’s words, when Dorgu is allowed to play in a more attacking role, he has the ability to “devastate opponents,” using his pace, directness, and confidence to hurt defenses.
Those observations appear to be supported by Dorgu’s recent contributions under Ruben Amorim.
Operating primarily on the right flank, he has become increasingly influential. Although a goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers was ruled out, his overall performance in that match was a positive sign.
Beyond club football, Dorgu has also delivered decisive moments for his national team, further highlighting his growing maturity and confidence.
Perhaps most notably, his goal against Newcastle United underlined his ability to make a tangible impact in big matches. It served as a reminder of why Manchester United were willing to invest heavily in him in the first place.
While questions still remain about consistency and long-term development, the signs suggest that Patrick Dorgu may finally be finding his feet at Old Trafford.
With the right tactical support and continued trust, his early struggles could yet give way to a breakthrough that justifies both the transfer fee and the faith placed in him.
