Patrick Dorgu has opened up about the impact of criticism from former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, admitting the comments 'hit me' but also served as motivation to elevate his game.
The 21-year-old left-back, signed from Lecce for £25 million last year, was publicly questioned by Amorim after a 1-0 defeat to Everton in November. Amorim stated, 'You can feel the anxiety every time Patrick touches the ball. I can feel the anxiety.'
Reflecting on those remarks nearly four months after Amorim's dismissal in early January, Dorgu acknowledged the sting but emphasised his determination to improve. 'It hit me a little bit when Amorim says that because when the coach speaks bad about 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,' he told The Telegraph.
Dorgu flourished under interim boss Michael Carrick before suffering a hamstring injury in January during a 3-2 victory at Arsenal, a match in which he scored. The Denmark international was one of the standout performers in Carrick's early weeks, helping United secure a likely return to the Champions League.
Dorgu suggested the timing of Amorim's criticism was poor, given his strong form for the national team. 'I don't think that was the word he 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.'
Despite the setback, Dorgu remains focused on his development and contributing to United's resurgence under Carrick, who is a strong candidate for the permanent managerial role.
