🔗 Share this article

Ruben Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable disappointment. By any measure, his record is notable for all the wrong reasons. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a standing as low as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of games. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in club lore by enduring a final loss to Spurs, particularly Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, however, is not often that simple. Regardless of the negative press of his favored system, the Portuguese manager departs from a club in a much stronger condition than that which he took over. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were praising United as the most impressive side they had encountered in a long time. The performance in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

While it is hard to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be caused by his comments about executives with even worse histories—his downfall was in the end hindered by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to vital players not coincided with the loss of other important individuals, he may remain in the role—perhaps thriving.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly solid scenario. Key players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely careful management of this talented roster ought to be adequate to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—probably in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to roll over. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five matches, their displays have often been better than the results show. Head coach Parker will certainly have his team fired up to get after opponents who are set to start an XI that has never played together, set up in a system they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.