£29m signing faces first big test on Tuesday against in-form star who spent 9 years at United
Manchester United will travel to the City Ground on Tuesday evening to take on Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
United will receive a welcome boost as Patrick Dorgu returns to the squad following a domestic suspension.
The young defender will face a tough challenge against Anthony Elanga, who has been in electrifying form for Forest this season.
Elanga ended his nine-year spell with the Red Devils in the summer of 2023 and joined Forest in a £15 million move that has proven to be a masterstroke for his development.
The Swedish international has become a hugely popular figure in the dressing room.
His direct attacking approach and willingness to take on defenders have seen him provide nine assists and five goals in 32 appearances this season.
With confidence on his side, Elanga will be eager to make an impact against his former club in midweek.
For Dorgu, this is a test of both resilience and skill.
The 20-year-old has made a promising start to life at Old Trafford, showing signs of being a strong addition to the squad.
Under manager Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, wing-backs play an important role, and Dorgu’s energy could help balance United’s play on the left.
United have lacked explosiveness on the left, with Diogo Dalot struggling to provide the attacking edge needed in the wing-back role.
In contrast, Dorgu has already shown he possesses the ball-carrying ability and dribbling threat Amorim craves.
However, against a quick and skilful opponent like Elanga, defensive awareness will be just as important as attacking contribution.
Though both players are quick, giving Elanga a head start could prove costly for the Red Devils.
The battle between Dorgu and Elanga could have a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .