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Amorim's spell at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a notable failure. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the negative factors. In the Premier League era, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as low as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

The game, though, is not often that simple. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a club in a far better position than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that his colleagues were hailing United as the most impressive side they had faced in some time. Their play in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally promising and exhilarating.

While it is tough to contest the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly triggered by his remarks regarding bosses with poorer histories—his downfall was in the end hindered by awful luck. If the absence of crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the absence of other important members, he might remain in the job—perhaps thriving.

A New Era Begins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively stable state of affairs. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply sensible husbandry of this talented roster is expected to be sufficient to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

Burnley, however, will not roll over. Even with having only twelve points and having lost three of their last five matches, their displays have often been stronger than the results show. Manager Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to get after the visitors who are expected to field an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a system they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.