The Premier League is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most competitive football leagues in the world. It’s a battleground where only the strongest survive, and those who don’t perform are quickly exposed. Managers face constant pressure, players are under the microscope every week, and one bad performance can shift public opinion dramatically. Manchester United has certainly felt the weight of this pressure during their disappointing campaign, and amid the criticism, a fresh voice has added a new layer to the discussion: Wolves manager Gary O’Neil.
O’Neil, known for his honest takes and sharp football mind, recently shared his views on Manchester United’s situation. While most fans and pundits have focused their criticism on younger players like Kobbie Mainoo or the under-fire striker Rasmus Højlund, O’Neil took an unexpected route. He highlighted a different name entirely—one that hasn’t been at the center of many conversations so far. According to him, there is one player in the United squad who desperately needs to step up: Patrick Dorgu.
Speaking in a post-match interview, O’Neil didn’t hold back. “Rúben Amorim is a great manager, absolutely,” he said, referring to the highly-rated Portuguese coach who is reportedly set to take over the reins at Old Trafford. “But if he wants to survive in the Premier League next season with Manchester United, he has to fix Patrick Dorgu. This isn’t just advice—it’s a matter of survival. If Dorgu doesn’t improve, they’ll be in serious danger. Not a threat—just plain truth.”
O’Neil’s remarks are particularly striking because they point to a deeper issue at Manchester United—one that goes beyond the usual scapegoats. By singling out Dorgu, he implies that the club’s problems aren’t just about young players finding their feet or forwards struggling to score. There are structural weaknesses, and certain players, like Dorgu, are not meeting the demands of top-tier English football.
His blunt assessment is a wake-up call, not only for Dorgu but for the entire Manchester United setup. O’Neil’s experience and tactical knowledge give weight to his words, and his warning should not be taken lightly. If United are to bounce back and avoid another disappointing season under Amorim, improving the performance of underachieving players like Patrick Dorgu will be absolutely crucial.
