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The former manager's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his performance is notable for all the poor causes. During the modern top-flight period, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, or secured a final position as poor as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Additionally, he famously secured a place in United's annals by suffering a loss in a final to Spurs, specifically Ange Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.

The game, but, is rarely so straightforward. Despite the scrutiny of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a club in a significantly improved position than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in a while. Their play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

While it is difficult to dispute the termination—especially given it was said to be triggered by his comments about bosses with poorer records—his downfall was ultimately hindered by atrocious fortune. Had fitness issues for crucial players not occurred alongside the absence of other pivotal figures, he may remain in the job—possibly thriving.

A New Era Begins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a fairly solid situation. Star figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply prudent husbandry of this skilled roster ought to be adequate to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for next season—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Task

The home side, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their last five outings, their displays have often been better than the results show. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his squad revved up to take the game to United who are expected to field an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.