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Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a significant failure. By any measure, his results is remarkable for all the wrong factors. In the Premier League era, no United manager has managed a lower points average, or achieved a final position as low as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of games. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by enduring a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, but, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a far better position than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that teammates were hailing their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in a while. The football in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

Although it is difficult to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was said to be caused by his criticism of executives with more miserable track records—his exit was finally stymied by awful fortune. Had fitness issues for vital players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other essential members, he may remain in the position—maybe succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher steps into a fairly positive situation. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the Afcon. Just careful stewardship of this gifted group is expected to be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the following term—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, will not roll over. Despite boasting only 12 points and losing 3 of their last five matches, their performances have at times been stronger than the outcomes indicate. Manager Scott Parker will surely have his team fired up to take the game to opponents who are expected to field an XI that has not had time to gel, set up in a setup they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.