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Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a significant letdown. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the negative factors. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, or achieved a final position as low as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who lost a larger share of matches. Additionally, he notoriously secured a place in United's annals by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, namely Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Football, but, is seldom that simple. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, the Portuguese manager departs from a squad in a much stronger position than the one he took over. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the best team they had encountered in a long time. Their performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

While it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be sparked by his remarks regarding superiors with more miserable records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hindered by terrible fortune. Had the absence of vital stars not occurred alongside the loss of other essential individuals, he might remain in the role—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively solid situation. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the African tournament. Merely sensible husbandry of this skilled squad is expected to be adequate to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

Burnley, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five matches, their performances have at times been more impressive than the results suggest. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to take the game to United who are expected to start an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a system they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.