Patrick Dorgu proves critics wrong as Manchester United face embarrassment over failed transfer judgment
Let’s be honest, it’s incredibly tempting to take a look at Manchester United’s transfer dealings.
For one, they often make it too easy; secondly, mocking them never fails to entertain; and lastly, anything negative about the Red Devils instantly grabs headlines.
Still, part of me feels it’s become a bit of a habit for fans and media alike sometimes United deserve criticism, but other times, people just pile on because it’s trendy.
However, we would argue that referring to Patrick Dorgu as “a dud” is a far worse reflection on Piotr Sadowski, who was a scout at United prior to his departure in August 2024, and those who chose to rely on his advice for seven years at the club, than it is on Dorgu or whoever made the sensible decision to fire Sadowski, if that is how his departure actually happened.
When it was suggested to Sadowski that the 21-year-old would be an example of Amorim’s failed recruitment, he responded, “A dud, I definitely agree.”
Dorgu was the first player signed under Ruben Amorim, having come from Lecce in a £29.2 million move during the January transfer window.
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And it cost €30 million to get him in. Since I recently worked at Blackburn Rovers and had a far smaller transfer budget, I can honestly say that I would have had no trouble finding a few players around Dorgu’s level for Manchester United, just no more than four—for €30 million.
The remarks carry the sting of a resentful former worker who won’t acknowledge that Manchester United’s hiring practices have clearly improved under Amorim.
In an attempt to find “a dud” to support his argument, he was unable to choose any of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, or Senne Lammens because they have all proven to be frustratingly competent.
Benjamin Sesko might carry a bit of flop potential, but it’s definitely too early to label him that.
From what’s been suggested, Sadowski United’s Central European scout may have been behind his recommendation, which would explain why Dorgu ended up being the only realistic alternative. Still, Sesko’s raw ability can’t be ignored.
A fans said even made a statement saying: I think he just needs the right system and confidence to settle; judging him too soon could be unfair, especially in a team still finding its rhythm.
Dorgu is in the 74th percentile for shot-creating actions, the 79th for critical passes, the 81st for progressive carries, and the 99th for touches in the opponent’s box when compared to full-backs in Europe’s top five leagues this season, according to FBRef.
In addition to playing wing-back rather than full-back, Dorgu is in the 86th percentile for interceptions and the 91st percentile for tackles won, for those of you who are protesting an unfair comparison.
In essence, he is a superb one-on-one defender who consistently advances and generates opportunities.
Besides, the stats doesn’t give different impression of Dorgu that’s different from what we see on the pitch for Manchester United, and we’re pretty sure Sadowski knows that too.
Dorgu is clearly a talented young player with the potential to develop into United’s long-term option at left wing-back. Of course, it’s still early days, and nothing is guaranteed, but his promise is undeniable.
Personally, I think with proper guidance and patience, he could turn into something special, time will tell whether United truly nurture that potential.
One thing’s for sure, he’s definitely not “a dud.” If Sadowski genuinely believes that, then it’s hard not to question how many real flops he convinced Manchester United to sign during his seven years of scouting.
It’s almost ironic, someone tasked with identifying top talent seemingly missing the mark so often.
Honestly, it makes you wonder how much trust was placed in the wrong judgment over the years, especially at a club of United’s stature.
