A crucial incident involving new acquisition Patrick Dorgu during Manchester United’s 4-1 victory against Real Sociedad on Thursday night has left supporters with differing views. The Red Devils qualified for the Europa League quarterfinals thanks in large part to a hat-trick from Bruno Fernandes and an outstanding display from teenager Ayden Heaven.
Additionally, Patrick Dorgu, the new left-wing back, put on a strong performance. The Danish international’s debut at the Theatre of Dreams has been uneventful, as he was sent off against Ipswich Town. He was a serious threat against the Spaniards, though, as his team scored their second penalty of the game and appeared to have secured a third as well. However, some supporters are debating his behaviour after Hamari Traore fouled him.
Dorgu Tells Referee Not to Award a Penalty
The player has been praised and criticised for his actions
Patrick Dorgu told the referee not to give Man United a penalty as Real Sociedad won the ball, leading to VAR overturning the decision.
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Dorgu and Traore engaged in a 50-fifty challenge inside the penalty area as the game was coming to a finish and the home team had a slim lead. The United player looked to win as he fell to the deck and the referee indicated the spot. Although it appeared like VAR would originally uphold the on-field ruling, replays appeared to indicate that Traore, who nearly missed the game due to visa complications, received the smallest of touches on the ball.
The ruling was reversed, though, when Dorgu seemed to tell official Benoit Bastien not to impose the penalty, as shown in the video above. Captain Fernandes might have lost his treble because of this, but he would win it seconds later in a strong counterattack.
Social media users’ reactions to the decision were mixed; one fan called it “refreshing to see,” while others said it was a risk that would have lost United the game under different conditions.
Amorim Reacts to Dorgu’s Comments to Referee
The United boss said he was proud of his defender
In his post-game press conference after the win, United manager Ruben Amorim discussed his feelings about the event and commended Dorgu for making the correct decision, although he acknowledged that he could have felt differently if his team hadn’t been winning.
“It varies. I’m really pleased of him because it’s the correct thing to do,” the Portuguese coach said. “I have the same reaction whether it’s 0-0 or losing.
“He performed admirably. He was physically fit for that position and could definitely compete in our league.
United will now try to maintain their faint hopes of playing in the Champions League the following season by facing French powerhouse Lyon in the round of eight.