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The former manager's tenure at the Red Devils has been labeled a significant letdown. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the poor reasons. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, or secured a final position as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a larger share of games. Additionally, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Life, though, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager exits a club in a much stronger state than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were lauding their opponents as the most impressive team they had faced in some time. The football in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.

Although it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with even worse records—his demise was finally hampered by atrocious luck. If injuries to crucial stars not coincided with the loss of other essential members, he might remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively solid state of affairs. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply prudent management of this skilled roster ought to be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Test

Burnley, though, will not make things easy. Despite boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five games, their performances have often been better than the scorelines show. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to attack the visitors who are expected to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have been denied for a year or more.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.