In a thrilling showdown at Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the club’s decision to challenge the Football Association’s (FA) ruling that has handed defender Patrick Dorgu a three-match ban. The young Danish full-back was sent off with a straight red card during United’s dramatic 3-2 triumph over Ipswich Town after a controversial tackle on Omari Hutchinson.
The incident occurred in the 43rd minute when Dorgu attempted a challenge on Hutchinson. Initially, the on-field referee did not penalize the tackle. However, following an intervention by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the match official reviewed the challenge on the pitchside monitor and ultimately decided to issue a red card for serious foul play. As a result, United was reduced to ten men for the remainder of the game, and Dorgu now faces suspension for three matches. This means he will be unavailable for crucial upcoming fixtures, including an FA Cup clash with Fulham, as well as Premier League encounters against Arsenal and Leicester City.
Reacting to the FA’s decision, Amorim voiced his frustration and confirmed that the club would appeal the ruling. “We have decided to appeal against their decision. That’s unfair,” the United boss remarked. He went on to defend Dorgu, highlighting that the young defender had no malicious intent behind the challenge. “He wants to play the ball. Maybe he’s a little bit harsh with the way he went for the ball. He’s inexperienced but he’s clearly ready for the Premier League,” Amorim explained, suggesting that the player’s youth and enthusiasm may have contributed to the nature of the challenge rather than any deliberate foul play.
The match itself was filled with drama and emotional swings for Manchester United supporters. The home side endured an early setback due to a defensive misunderstanding between Dorgu and goalkeeper Andre Onana, which allowed Ipswich’s Jaden Philogene to capitalize and score an easy goal. However, United responded positively and managed to overturn the deficit. A defensive mishap from Ipswich led to an own goal by Sam Morsy, leveling the score. Soon after, United took the lead through a well-placed strike from Matthijs de Ligt.
Nevertheless, United’s advantage was short-lived. Dorgu’s red card forced them to adjust their approach, and Ipswich capitalized on the numerical advantage when Philogene found the back of the net once again, making it 2-2. With the pressure mounting, United needed a strong response, and it came early in the second half. A powerful header from Harry Maguire ultimately sealed the victory for the Red Devils, ensuring they took all three points despite playing with ten men for the remainder of the match.
Now, with the club set to appeal Dorgu’s suspension, United will hope for a favorable outcome that could allow the young defender to return sooner than expected.
