Manchester United have suffered an injury setback during the international break after Patrick Dorgu was ruled out of Denmark’s remaining Nations League fixtures.
The versatile defender picked up a thigh injury during Denmark’s 2-0 victory over Wales on Sunday and will now return to Manchester for further assessment by United’s medical team.
Denmark head coach Brian Riemer confirmed the 21-year-old would leave the national squad after the setback.
“He has an injury and has to go home,” Riemer told broadcaster TV2.
The Danish Football Association later confirmed Dorgu’s withdrawal, with the Manchester United player unable to continue his international involvement.
“Patrick Dorgu unfortunately has to withdraw from the squad due to an injury.”
Dorgu’s return to United will now give the club’s medical staff an opportunity to determine the seriousness of the problem and how long he could be unavailable.
The injury comes at an inconvenient time for United, with Dorgu having established himself as an important option since arriving at Old Trafford. His ability to operate across the left side has provided flexibility, making his fitness a concern ahead of the club’s return to domestic action.
While Dorgu is heading back to Manchester, United captain Bruno Fernandes is set to remain with Portugal despite concerns surrounding his fitness.
Fernandes was left out of Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway on Sunday as a precaution after playing 89 minutes in the previous fixture against Wales.
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has nevertheless indicated that the midfielder could return to action when Portugal face Denmark on Thursday.
The decision represents a contrasting situation for United’s two internationals.
Dorgu has already been released from Denmark duty and will undergo assessment at club level, while Fernandes remains involved with Portugal as the national team weighs up his availability for the next Nations League fixture.
United are understood to expect Fernandes to make an immediate return for Thursday’s meeting with Denmark, provided he is cleared to play.
For United, the priority will be getting a clear picture of Dorgu’s injury once he arrives back at the club.
The timing of the problem will also be closely monitored, with the international break giving United’s medical department time to assess the defender before the Premier League campaign resumes.
Fernandes, meanwhile, could provide United with a welcome boost if he comes through Portugal’s next fixture without aggravating the issue that kept him out against Norway.
The contrasting fortunes of Dorgu and Fernandes underline one of the risks clubs face during international windows: players can return with injuries, while others remain away with their national teams despite fitness concerns.
United will now await further updates on Dorgu before determining the extent of the latest setback.
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