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Amorim's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a significant letdown. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the wrong factors. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a lower points average, or secured a final position as poor as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of matches. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, but, is not often so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, he departs from a team in a far better state than the one he found. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing United as the best side they had played against in some time. The play in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

While it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his comments about executives with poorer records—his downfall was in the end stymied by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to vital personnel not happened at the same time as the loss of other pivotal figures, he might still be in the role—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a fairly solid situation. Star figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Afcon. Simply careful management of this gifted squad is expected to be adequate to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

Burnley, but, won't make things easy. Although having only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five outings, their displays have often been better than the outcomes suggest. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to get after United who are expected to play an XI that has not had time to gel, set up in a system they have gone without for over a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.