Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United has been labeled a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the poor reasons. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, or secured a final position as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of games. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.
Life, but, is not often that simple. Regardless of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, he leaves behind a club in a far better state than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck shared that his colleagues were lauding their opponents as the finest side they had encountered in some time. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exciting.
While it is tough to contest the termination—especially given it was reportedly caused by his comments about superiors with even worse histories—Amorim's exit was finally hindered by atrocious fortune. If the absence of crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important members, he may remain in the role—maybe thriving.
As a result, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly positive state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Afcon. Merely sensible husbandry of this skilled roster should be adequate to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.
Burnley, though, will not be a pushover. Despite having only a dozen points and losing 3 of their previous five outings, their showings have frequently been better than the outcomes show. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to take the game to United who are set to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, set up in a system they have not used for a year or more.
Start time: 20:15 GMT.
Lena Hoffmann is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter, specializing in German current affairs and digital media trends.
