‘Can’t defend, can’t pass, can’t attack…’: Fans shocked with one player’s performance against Lyon

Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final second leg clash against Lyon was a tale of two halves—blistering brilliance in the first, and absolute chaos in the second. The Red Devils came into the match with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg and extended it confidently in the first 45 minutes, heading into the break 2-0 up and cruising. But what followed in the second half left fans in utter disbelief.

Despite a promising start, United’s defensive structure fell apart like a house of cards after the interval. With Lyon growing in confidence, Corentin Tolisso’s simple yet clinical header in the 71st minute brought the tie back to life. Only seven minutes later, United’s worst fears were realized as the French side netted the equalizer, leveling the aggregate score and shifting the momentum entirely.

While fingers were pointed across the backline, one name dominated the post-match conversation: Patrick Dorgu. The young full-back, who was handed a surprise start in this crucial European fixture, found himself at the heart of both goals conceded. Fans didn’t hold back in expressing their frustration, with many directing harsh criticism at his inability to contribute either defensively or offensively.

Social media erupted, with supporters airing their fury and disappointment. One fan bluntly wrote on X, “That Dorgu guy is totally worthless, can’t defend, can’t pass, can’t attack…”—a scathing summary of the performance that sparked thousands of likes and shares. Another post read, “Leny is defending with his head while some lazy players like Dorgu are escorting players,” referencing the perceived lack of urgency and defensive effort.

Criticism didn’t stop there. One user vented, “Dorgu should have gone off for Shaw,” suggesting that the more experienced Luke Shaw could have brought much-needed composure and tactical awareness. In hindsight, Erik ten Hag’s decision to trust the youngster in such a pivotal moment might have been a gamble that backfired.

Another supporter expressed personal disappointment: “Dorgu plays for my football club. I couldn’t be more distraught. Cost us two goals tonight.” That sentiment was echoed by many others who felt betrayed by a performance they believed fell far below Manchester United’s standards.

It wasn’t just the goals that painted a poor picture. Throughout the second half, Dorgu struggled to position himself correctly, frequently losing his man, misjudging crosses, and offering little to no support going forward. His passing was erratic, his awareness lacking, and his transitions into attack were nonexistent.

Ironically, in a team that initially looked sharp and coordinated, Dorgu stood out—not for the right reasons, but because he appeared so out of sync. Every time Lyon attacked down his flank, there was a sense of vulnerability, a feeling that something could go wrong. Unfortunately for United, it did.

While it’s important to acknowledge that every young player has tough days, the magnitude of this game and the consequences of his errors made Dorgu a lightning rod for fan frustration. With Manchester United now exiting the Europa League, many supporters are questioning whether he should be given more time to develop elsewhere—perhaps on loan or in less demanding fixtures.

Some pundits have also weighed in, suggesting that the defensive line lacked leadership, and young players like Dorgu were left exposed without proper guidance from veterans like Varane or Shaw. Others believe this was simply a step too soon for the defender, whose inexperience showed under the lights of European pressure.

It’s unclear how Ten Hag will respond to the backlash. He has been known to stand by his young talents in the past, but this might be a moment where accountability is demanded—not just by the fans but by the players themselves. United, after all, is a club where excellence is expected, especially in knockout football.

Whether Dorgu is benched in future matches, or used more cautiously going forward, remains to be seen. For now, the fallout continues, and the young full-back must regroup, learn from his mistakes, and prove to both his manager and supporters that this was a one-off.

For Manchester United, the Europa League dream is over. For Patrick Dorgu, the road to redemption has only just begun. The Old Trafford faithful are watching closely—and they won’t forget this performance any time soon.