Patrick Dorgu settled a hot Man Utd debate vs Sabah, his 65-touch display was undeniable

Patrick Dorgu earned the Uefa Man of the Match award against Sabah and he settled an interesting debate en route.

Manchester United’s first goal in their 4-0 win vs Sabah in the Champions League came from a Patrick Dorgu cross to Matheus Cunha.

Dorgu then went on to win more duels than any other player on the pitch, showcasing his fine work both in and out of possession.

It was an impressive display from the 21-year-old, and it sent a clear message to Michael Carrick about where his future lies.

Do you believe Dorgu can properly challenge Luke Shaw as a starter at the position?

Carrick was always expected to rotate his United line-up against Sabah with a match against Manchester City on the horizon.

Throughout pre-season and at the start of the season, Carrick insisted with Dorgu playing on the left wing of his 4-2-3-1 formation.

Originally, Dorgu was signed as a wing-back option for Ruben Amorim. Now that United have changed system, it has sparked a debate around whether he should be playing at left-back or as a left winger.

Carrick has preferred the left wing spot, but tried Dorgu at left-back against Sabah. The performance that followed gives him all the answers he needs.

Dorgu should be considered as a left-back in this United squad.

Lots of strong candidates to choose from!

If Carrick takes Dorgu’s result and makes him a full-time left-back at United, it opens up the door for Tynan Thompson to challenge for a first-team spot.

Marcus Rashford has been in great form on United’s left flank, while Matheus Cunha also impressed off the left against Sabah far more than in his centre-forward performances.

Realistically, United will have to rely on squad depth in 2026/27 with four competitions to play.

Dorgu can challenge Shaw and Harry Amass for a left-back spot, and Thompson (a £4m summer signing) can step up and take it as a chance to compete for a wing spot.