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Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils has been labeled a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his record is remarkable for all the wrong reasons. During the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved fewer points per game, or achieved a final position as low as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of matches. Additionally, he notoriously etched his name in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly the current version of Tottenham.

Football, however, is not often that simple. Despite the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a team in a significantly improved position than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were lauding United as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a long time. The performance in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

While it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be sparked by his comments about executives with even worse track records—Amorim's exit was ultimately hindered by terrible fortune. Had fitness issues for vital personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal members, he might remain in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Fletcher takes over a reasonably positive situation. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Afcon. Just sensible stewardship of this gifted group should be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

The home side, but, will not be a pushover. Although boasting only twelve points and losing 3 of their last five outings, their displays have at times been more impressive than the results indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will surely have his side revved up to get after United who are set to play an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.