Manchester United’s poor league form continued on Sunday as the Red Devils lost 2-0 at home to Crystal Palace. This defeat meant Ruben Amorim became the fastest coach to lose this many games (5 Premier League home losses from 7)—a record the Portuguese manager would like to forget soon.
Before the game against Oliver Glasner’s side, Manchester United unveiled their two young recruits from the winter transfer window. Twenty-year-old Danish left-back Dorgu, who arrived from Serie A side Lecce, and 18-year-old English center-back Ayden Heaven greeted the fans before watching from the stands as their new club failed to make an impact on the pitch.
Amidst the poor run of form in the league, Amorim’s decision to stick with his preferred back-three setup has often been questioned. However, he remains determined to impose his ideas at Old Trafford. The areas the club chose to emphasize during the January transfer window provide a clear indication of what to expect from the new manager going forward.
Dorgu’s attacking mindset and ability to score goals as well as create chances is reason for optimism. With Luke Shaw sidelined due to a long-term injury and Tyrell Malacia struggling to regain full form after a lengthy absence, Amorim was forced to deploy Diogo Dalot in the left wing-back position. Dalot, who isn’t a natural left-footed player, has struggled to meet the demands of the role, making Dorgu’s arrival a welcome addition.
Ayden Heaven, described as a dominant and complete center-back, could fill the gaps in defense. With Amorim’s system requiring three center-backs, Heaven’s signing is a wise investment. However, how quickly he can integrate into the team and make an impact remains to be seen. With Lisandro Martínez sidelined due to an ACL injury, Heaven’s playing time may come sooner than initially anticipated.
“They are ready to play, and they are two more solutions to help us in this moment,” said Amorim about the new signings on Thursday ahead of the FA Cup tie against Leicester.
Many Manchester United fans are disappointed that a new attacker wasn’t added to bolster the struggling frontline. However, Amorim has emphasized the need to avoid repeating past mistakes and stressed the importance of being cautious in the transfer market.
Amorim has also expressed hope that Dorgu’s arrival will provide more flexibility in attack and help address the team’s goal-scoring issues. “I think Amad can score more, Bruno [Fernandes] can score more, and even Kobbie Mainoo can score more by playing a bit further up the pitch. We have to improve as a team, and we have a bit more time to work on it,” he told the press ( quotes via Manchester United's official website).
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