Manchester United are preparing for a packed festive fixture list after a vital 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, a result that has lifted the team into the Premier League's top half.
Amorim's disciplinary stance with Dorgu
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim made a significant team selection decision for the trip to south London, omitting young defender Patrick Dorgu from the starting lineup. The Danish full-back was named on the bench following an incident on social media where he appeared to endorse criticism of his manager's tactics.
The post in question took aim at Amorim's choice to utilise Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in a midfield pivot. While many speculated the dropping was a pure disciplinary measure, the Portuguese coach provided a more nuanced explanation, citing the player's "anxiety" on the pitch as the primary reason.
"What I feel when I see them training, they are doing so much better than in games," Amorim stated. "When I see him playing for the national team... the decision that he made under pressure was different to the decision that he's making in our team."
He elaborated on the pressure facing the player at Old Trafford: "You can feel the anxiety every time Patrick touched the ball — I can feel it, the anxiety. He needs to be calmer playing the game." Amorim emphasised his role is to help Dorgu unlock his true potential in a United shirt, a process he is committed to overseeing.
Rashford's Barcelona milestone achieved
Elsewhere, Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has realised a long-held ambition. The England forward made his first appearance at Barcelona's iconic Camp Nou stadium, coming on as a half-time substitute in a 3-1 La Liga win over Alaves on Saturday.
Rashford, who joined the Catalan giants on loan in the summer, had previously spoken of his excitement at the prospect of playing at the famous ground. "Camp Nou was always one of my favourite stadiums and one I wanted to play in," he said upon his arrival. "But to play on it for Barcelona is going to be a different feeling. I cannot wait to be on the pitch."
The 28-year-old has made a strong start to his spell in Spain, contributing six goals and nine assists across all competitions. His notable performances include a Champions League brace against Newcastle United.
United's festive fixture crunch
The win against Palace, secured with goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount after Jean-Philippe Mateta's penalty opener, provides a platform for a crucial period. Amorim's side had seen momentum stall with draws against Tottenham and Nottingham Forest, followed by a disappointing 1-0 loss to 10-man Everton.
The manager now prepares his squad for a demanding schedule. Games against West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers are imminent, followed by a home match with Bournemouth and a tough away trip to face Aston Villa as the Premier League calendar intensifies.
