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Ruben Amorim's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his record is remarkable for all the wrong causes. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has achieved a lower points average, or secured a standing as low as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a greater proportion of matches. Furthermore, he notoriously secured a place in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, specifically the current side of the North London club.

Football, though, is rarely that simple. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, he departs from a team in a much stronger condition than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing their opponents as the best team they had encountered in a while. Their football in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

While it is hard to contest the termination—especially given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of superiors with poorer track records—his demise was ultimately hampered by terrible luck. Had injuries to crucial players not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other essential figures, he might still be in the role—maybe even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher steps into a fairly positive scenario. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Afcon. Merely prudent management of this talented group ought to be enough to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the following term—most likely in the prestigious European Cup.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

The home side, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only twelve points and having lost 3 of their most recent five matches, their showings have frequently been more impressive than the outcomes show. Head coach Parker will surely have his side revved up to get after opponents who are expected to start an lineup that has never played together, arranged in a system they have been denied for over a year.

Kick-off: 8:15 in the evening GMT.