Predicted Man United XI vs Leicester City: Patrick Dorgu to Make His Debut

Manchester United’s upcoming FA Cup fourth-round tie against Leicester City promises to be a thrilling match, especially with the potential debut of new signing Patrick Dorgu. Under the guidance of head coach Ruben Amorim, fans eagerly anticipate how the lineup will be shaped, particularly in light of recent injuries and the tactical adjustments that need to be made. This article will delve into the expected starting XI, key players to watch, and the implications of adding fresh talent to the squad.

The Excitement Surrounding Patrick Dorgu

Patrick Dorgu is one of the two new signings ready to make an impact, alongside Ayden Heaven. At just 18 years of age, Dorgu already possesses 23 appearances for Lecce this season. His experience in Serie A, coupled with his potential, suggests that he could be a game-changer for Manchester United as they aim to progress further in the FA Cup. Amorim has expressed confidence in both Dorgu and Heaven, indicating they are "ready to play" against a challenging Leicester side.

In today’s match, Dorgu will likely take up the left wing-back position, especially vital given the absence of key defender Lisandro Martinez, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to an ACL injury. Coach Amorim will need to rearrange the defense without Martinez’s presence, making Dorgu’s debut even more significant.

Defensive Reshuffle Required

Martinez’s injury has necessitated a defensive reshuffle that complicates selections but also presents an opportunity for emerging talents. Dorgu will be positioned as a left wing-back, allowing Noussair Mazraoui to assume a central role in a back three, with Diogo Dalot shifting to the right wing-back position. The rest of the backline will likely consist of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, completing a robust defensive unit.

Considering the luxury of a nine-day gap before the next fixture, Amorim may opt for his strongest lineup, resisting the temptation to introduce inexperienced players like Leny Yoro, who is still developing but shows considerable promise. Meanwhile, Victor Lindelof’s lack of match fitness makes him less likely to return against Leicester, while Tyrell Malacia’s loan move and the continued absences of Luke Shaw and Jonny Evans further limit defensive options.

Expected Defensive Line-Up

Position	Player
Left Wing-Back	Patrick Dorgu
Center Back	Noussair Mazraoui
Center Back	Harry Maguire
Center Back	Matthijs de Ligt
Right Wing-Back	Diogo Dalot

Plenty of Midfield Options, But Little Choice Up Front

In midfield, United boasts a wealth of options, which is crucial for controlling the game’s pace. Expect Manu Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes to anchor the midfield, tasked with linking play and providing support to both the defense and attack. Experienced players like Christian Eriksen and Casemiro can be called upon to offer additional depth if needed.

Midfield Options

Midfield Role	Player
Central Midfield	Manu Ugarte
Central Midfield	Bruno Fernandes
Substitute Option	Christian Eriksen
Substitute Option	Casemiro

However, the forward line presents a different challenge. The experiment of using Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine did not yield the desired results against Crystal Palace, meaning Amorim is likely to revert to a more traditional striker role. Rasmus Hojlund or Josh Zirkzee will lead the attack, with Zirkzee potentially emerging as the preferred option based on his current form.

Support from wingers will come from Amad and Alejandro Garnacho, with the striking options further limited by the loan departures of Marcus Rashford and Antony, combined with the unavailability of Mason Mount. In light of these absences, the emergence of youngsters like 17-year-old Chido Obi could provide a surprise element on the bench. Similarly, Gabriele Biancheri is another prospect that Amorim might consider for the squad.

Expected Forward Line-Up

Forward Position	Player
Striker	Josh Zirkzee
Left Forward	Amad
Right Forward	Alejandro Garnacho

Goalkeeping Choice

In goal, Altay Bayindir is expected to continue his role as the starting goalkeeper, having featured in most of the cup matches this season. His shot-stopping ability and command of the box could prove instrumental in the team’s efforts to secure a clean sheet against Leicester’s attacking threats.

Goalkeeper

Position	Player
Goalkeeper	Altay Bayindir

Final Predictions

Given the challenges and opportunities presented in this exhilarating matchup, here is the predicted starting XI for Manchester United against Leicester City:

Predicted Man United XI

Position	Player
Goalkeeper	Altay Bayindir
Right Wing-Back	Diogo Dalot
Center Back	Harry Maguire
Center Back	Matthijs de Ligt
Center Back	Noussair Mazraoui
Left Wing-Back	Patrick Dorgu
Central Midfield	Manu Ugarte
Central Midfield	Bruno Fernandes
Left Forward	Amad
Striker	Josh Zirkzee
Right Forward	Alejandro Garnacho

Potential Bench Options

1. Altay Bayindir – Goalkeeper
2. Victor Lindelof – Defender
3. Ayden Heaven – Defender
4. Kobbie Mainoo – Midfielder
5. Christian Eriksen – Midfielder
6. Casemiro – Midfielder
7. Chido Obi – Forward
8. Gabriele Biancheri – Forward

Conclusion

With a blend of new signings and established players, Manchester United is poised to face Leicester City with renewed vigor and determination in the FA Cup. The introduction of Patrick Dorgu, coupled with a strategically reshuffled lineup, sets the stage for an exciting encounter.

Fans can look forward to how Amorim’s tactical adjustments will unfold, with the potential for young talents like Dorgu and others to capture the spotlight. United’s future seems bright with such promising players ready to step into more significant roles.

For real-time updates, behind-the-scenes action, or player interactions, consider following the official Manchester United social media accounts and checking player profiles:

• Manchester United Official Website: manutd.com
• Instagram: Manchester United Instagram
• Twitter: Manchester United Twitter

As the match approaches, excitement and high expectations surround the debut of Patrick Dorgu, who not only represents the future of Manchester United but also embodies the club’s commitment to integrating young talent into the first team. Let’s see how they perform against Leicester City tonight!

Feature image Credit: Google.com/thepeoplesperson.com