'Wrong time': 21yo Man Utd star hits back at Amorim, Carrick could unleash him vs Liverpool

Manchester United star Patrick Dorgu has finally broken his silence on the harsh criticism directed at him by former head coach Ruben Amorim.

Amorim had sparked controversy back in November when he admitted he could feel “the anxiety every time Patrick touches the ball.”

It was a brutal and public remark aimed at a young player who had only recently arrived at Old Trafford.

Dorgu has now hit back at Amorim (via The Telegraph): “It hit me a little bit when Amorim says that because when the coach speaks bad about you [criticises you], it is always going to affect you a little bit. I just took it in the best possible way and tried to improve my game.

“I don’t think that was the word he [Amorim] was looking for. Anxious? I don’t think it was that. I just think I didn’t have any confidence and the team was not in a good moment at that time.

“I think he said it at the wrong time because I played well in the national team. I don’t see how I can play well in one and play bad in the other, and all of a sudden I am anxious.”

Dorgu is a big part of United’s future

United signed Dorgu from Serie A outfit Lecce for an initial fee of £25.2 million in February 2025.

Like many young talents arriving from less intense leagues, Dorgu needed time and stability to adapt but was afforded neither.

Instead, he was thrust straight into the starting XI as a left wing-back in a struggling team that was unable to win back-to-back games.

Despite the chaos around him, Dorgu caught the eye with his willingness to battle in duels.

His explosive acceleration and ability to stretch play added a new dimension, though his decision-making in the final third required refinement.

The unforgiving nature of the Premier League also exposed weaknesses in his first touch and defensive awareness.

Having said that, a manager should not publicly throw a youngster under the bus.

Amorim was far too honest in his media briefings.

That same candour eventually contributed to tensions with the United hierarchy following a draw with Leeds United.

Amorim was relieved of his duties, while Dorgu began to flourish under Michael Carrick.

He scored stunning goals against Manchester City and Arsenal before picking up a hamstring injury.

The Dane was part of the matchday squad against Brentford but could make his long-awaited return to action later today when Liverpool arrive at the Theatre of Dreams.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .