Life under Ruben Amorim has gotten off to a less than ideal start for everyone involved with Manchester United. Fans were optimistic at first, but also equally understanding that the Portuguese was inheriting a squad that was not his own, and true judgements of his managerial skills would be fair to make only once he's had a full transfer window and preseason to build his squad.
However, there is usually a 'new manager bounce' as a new boss arrives in the dugout, which had United fans quietly excited after enduring a torrid time with former boss Erik Ten Hag - despite his success in the FA Cup last season. This was not the case, however, as United slumped to yet another home defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace. The result leaves The Red Devils 13th in the Premier League, closer to the relegation zone (12 points) to that of the top four (14).
United's worst home form on record
They have now lost 7 of their 13 home league matches this season, which is the joint-most at this stage of any league campaign in the clubs history, along with the 1893-94 season - also 7 in 13. One aspect of their poor form is that of a defence that can't keep a clean sheet, no matter the opponent they face.
Amorim has been short of defensive options at times this season through injury and illness, and will have to do without Lisandro Martínez for the remainder of the season after suffering an ACL tear against Palace. The United boss has dipped into the January transfer window to secure the services of 20-year-old Patrick Dorgu, an attacking left back who joins for £25 million from Lecce, with the potential for an additional £4.1 million in add-ons.
What can the Danish international bring to a side who have spent the majority of the season in the bottom half of the Premier League?
A defender who fits the system
Dorgu joins off the back of an impressive 24/25 campaign thus far for Lecce in Serie A, with the fullback boasting 3 goals from open play this season - the most of any Lecce player. Additionally, he sits joint-top for the the most dribbles completed (13), whilst ranking second in the squad for shots (36) and chances created (19). (Stats via onefootball)
Defensive numbers that fit United's needs
Equally as important are his defensive contributions, which will be key in helping tighten up a leaky United defence. He has made more tackles (45) than any Lecce player this season, and also stands at 6ft 1in, making him an imposing presence who is highly regarded for his relentless work rate and ability to cover distance on the pitch. (Stats via onefootball)
A sign of things to come under Amorim?
Given the balance of attacking threat and defensive ability possessed by Dorgu, it is easy to see how well a versatile player will slot into the left wingback role in Amorim's 3-4-3 system. Despite Luke Shaw returning to training in the wake of the new arrival and the departure of Tyrell Malacia on loan to PSV Eindhoven, Dorgu will no doubt be the number one choice for Ruben Amorim.
With the arrival of Ayden Heaven from Arsenal for a reported £1.5m wrapping up the January Transfer window, Manchester United fans can be optimistic in possibly overhauling the current squad when the 24/25 season ends and let their manager build a team he feels will succeed in the future.
