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Amorim's spell at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a notable failure. Statistically speaking, his record is remarkable for all the poor factors. Throughout the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed fewer points per game, nor achieved a standing as poor as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he notoriously etched his name in club lore by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically the current iteration of the North London club.

The game, but, is not often so black and white. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a squad in a far better position than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest team they had faced in some time. The play in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to argue against the termination—especially given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of executives with more miserable records—Amorim's exit was finally hindered by atrocious luck. Had the absence of key personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important figures, he may still be in the position—possibly thriving.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively solid situation. Important figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible husbandry of this talented squad ought to be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—probably in the elite European Cup.

Burnley's Formidable Challenge

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and losing three of their last five outings, their displays have frequently been more impressive than the results suggest. Boss Scott Parker will surely have his side revved up to take the game to opponents who are likely to play an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a formation they have gone without for over a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.