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Amorim's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record stands out for all the wrong factors. Throughout the contemporary football age, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, or secured a final position as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of matches. Additionally, he famously etched his name in United's annals by experiencing a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Ange Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

The game, though, is seldom that simple. In spite of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim departs from a team in a much stronger condition than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding United as the best team they had played against in some time. The football in a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is tough to contest the termination—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his exit was in the end hampered by atrocious luck. Had the absence of crucial stars not coincided with the loss of other pivotal figures, he might remain in the position—possibly even.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively stable state of affairs. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Afcon. Just prudent stewardship of this talented roster ought to be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the following term—probably in the coveted European Cup.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

Vincent Kompany's team, but, will not roll over. Although boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five matches, their showings have frequently been stronger than the outcomes show. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his side fired up to get after opponents who are expected to field an XI that has not had time to gel, deployed in a formation they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.