Dorgu spills the beans on how United will smash Newcastle to smithereens ahead of must-win clash

Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu has told his teammates a key thing they must get right to destroy Newcastle later this week. United looking to bounce back United will undoubtedly be eager to get back to winning ways when they welcome Newcastle to Old Trafford on Boxing Day. The Red Devils are still reeling from last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at the hands of Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, which denied them the chance to jump to fifth place in the Premier League standings. United put up a spirited performance at Villa Park but they were unfortunately undone by a Morgan Rogers double. The last time United won at home was on 26 October, when they beat Brighton and Hove Albion 4-1, which adds to the pressure of clinching all three points when the Magpies come visiting. United will have to earn victory without the services of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad and Noussair Mazraoui, who are all away with their respective countries for the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations. Several other players including Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, remain sidelined with injuries. However, Dorgu is confident that United can still get the job done, noting that the secret is to get on the ball to counter Newcastle’s high press. Dorgu reveals secret The Dane told club media about Friday’s opponents, “I think they press very high.” “They’re very aggressive as a team, they play very direct and they have a very good midfield to control the game, so I think it’s always difficult to play against Newcastle.” Dorgu added, “They just fight for every ball; they’re a very aggressive and strong team. I think the physical battle and to be calm on the ball [will be important].” “We need to try to get the ball in their half so they cannot press us so high.” United vs. Newcastle kicks off at 20:00 GMT. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!