🔗 Share this article

Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United has been labeled a major letdown. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the wrong reasons. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has recorded fewer points per game, nor managed a final position as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of matches. Moreover, he notoriously secured a place in United's annals by experiencing a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Life, but, is rarely so straightforward. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a club in a significantly improved state than the one he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were lauding United as the finest side they had encountered in a while. The football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is hard to dispute the termination—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable records—Amorim's downfall was in the end hampered by terrible luck. If the absence of crucial personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other essential figures, he might remain in the job—possibly succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Fletcher inherits a reasonably solid state of affairs. Star figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Afcon. Just prudent stewardship of this talented squad is expected to be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the following term—most likely in the prestigious European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

The home side, but, are unlikely to make things easy. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their showings have frequently been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his side pumped up to attack opponents who are likely to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have gone without for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.