Denmark boss admits Patrick Dorgu “has deserved more” amid Manchester United breakthrough

Denmark manager Brian Riemer has openly admitted that he hasn’t given Manchester United full-back Patrick Dorgu enough opportunities at international level, praising the youngster’s progress and consistency at club level under Rúben Amorim.

Speaking to Tipsbladet ahead of Denmark’s World Cup qualifiers, Riemer said Dorgu will finally get his chance to start — with Joakim Mæhle ruled out — and acknowledged that the United defender’s limited minutes for the national team have been down to his own selection choices rather than the player’s performances.

Dorgu has been part of the Danish senior setup for over a year but has only made four appearances, all coming in the UEFA Nations League. His last start came in March against Portugal when Mæhle was unavailable.

Now, with fixtures against Belarus and Scotland ahead, the 20-year-old is set for a full audition to stake his claim as Denmark’s first-choice left-back.

“Now Dorgu will get the chance,” Riemer confirmed. “He still has areas for development — both he and we know that — but he is also still young.

He’s completely ready to play these international matches because he plays matches almost every week for Manchester United, where he meets the best players in the world.”

Riemer went on to praise Dorgu’s development and attitude, conceding that he should have been given more trust earlier.

“No one doubts Patrick Dorgu’s qualities. He has deserved more than I have given him, if I am to be completely honest. Based on his merits, he could well have been given more playing time by me. Hopefully Patrick does well in the upcoming games so I have even more doubts in the future.”

At just 20 years old, Dorgu represents Denmark’s next generation of defenders. His technical confidence, pace, and aggression have made him one of the most promising young full-backs in the Premier League, and Riemer’s admission suggests he’s now firmly in contention for a larger role heading toward the 2026 World Cup.

If the United defender delivers strong performances against Belarus and Scotland, he could make himself difficult to drop — particularly as Denmark look to phase in younger talent across their back line.

In our view, Dorgu’s blend of maturity and versatility makes him one of Denmark’s most exciting emerging players. His consistent minutes at Manchester United show he can handle top-level football, and Riemer’s comments suggest the national setup now recognises that growth.

Given Mæhle’s advancing age and inconsistent form, this could be the moment Dorgu seizes the starting spot for good.

Dorgu will start for Denmark against Belarus this week, aiming to translate his strong Manchester United form to the international stage. After the break, he’ll return to Old Trafford as Amorim prepares United for their Premier League fixture against Everton on 24 November.

👉 Manchester United fans — is Patrick Dorgu ready to be Luke Shaw’s long-term successor, or should he continue to develop gradually under Amorim?