Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim made a bold selection statement before overseeing a crucial 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Monday, 1st December 2025. The win was secured with second-half goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, but the pre-match narrative was dominated by the omission of defender Patrick Dorgu.
Amorim's Tactical and Psychological Tweaks
The Portuguese boss made significant changes to his starting line-up for the Premier League clash. He brought in Mason Mount for his intensity and ability to operate near the opposition box, while Diogo Dalot also earned a recall. However, the most notable absentee was left-back Patrick Dorgu. Amorim explained the decision was partly due to sensing anxiety in the player's recent performances, stating Dorgu was feeling the immense pressure of representing the club, which affected his composure on the ball.
A Social Media Slip-Up Complicates Matters
The situation was exacerbated by an incident on social media. Dorgu was found to have liked an Instagram post that criticised Amorim's previous team selections. While the manager cited performance anxiety as the primary reason, this digital faux pas is understood to have been a contributing factor in the decision to relegate the defender to the bench. Dorgu did eventually enter the fray, but only as a late substitute in the 89th minute.
Palace Domination and Penalty Drama
The first half belonged entirely to the visitors. Crystal Palace created the better chances and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Jean-Philippe Mateta scored from the penalty spot. The goal, however, was shrouded in controversy. Mateta's initial successful penalty was disallowed after a VAR review spotted an accidental double-touch. The referee correctly ordered a retake, which the Palace striker calmly converted to give his side a deserved lead at the interval.
United's Spirited Second-Half Fightback
United emerged after the break with renewed purpose. The equaliser arrived in the 54th minute through Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, who powered a shot from a tight angle to end a lengthy personal goal drought. The turnaround was completed just nine minutes later. Mason Mount, whose selection was vindicated, struck a low 20-yard free-kick that found its way through a gap in the Palace wall, securing a vital three points for the Red Devils.
The victory provides a significant boost for Amorim and his squad, but the episode with Dorgu highlights the modern managerial challenge of handling player psychology both on and off the pitch. The manager's firm response to the social media activity sets a clear precedent for squad discipline as United look to build momentum.
