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Amorim's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a notable failure. By any measure, his record is remarkable for all the negative factors. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has achieved fewer points per game, or achieved a final position as poor as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of matches. Moreover, he famously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, particularly the current version of Spurs.

Football, but, is not often so black and white. Regardless of the criticism of his favored system, the Portuguese manager exits a team in a much stronger condition than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were praising their opponents as the best team they had faced in a while. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

While it is tough to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be caused by his remarks regarding superiors with poorer histories—his demise was ultimately hampered by terrible fortune. If the absence of vital stars not coincided with the absence of other essential individuals, he may still be in the role—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher inherits a relatively stable scenario. Key figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Afcon. Simply sensible stewardship of this gifted squad is expected to be adequate to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for next season—probably in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to make things easy. Although boasting only 12 points and losing 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have frequently been better than the outcomes suggest. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his squad revved up to take the game to the visitors who are likely to field an lineup that has not had time to gel, set up in a setup they have not used for over a year.

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