The Clarets Face Off Against United in Key English Top Division Match
Amorim's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the negative factors. Throughout the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded fewer points per game, or secured a standing as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he infamously secured a place in club lore by enduring a final loss to Tottenham, specifically Postecoglou's side of the North London club.
Life, however, is not often so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he exits a squad in a much stronger state than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck relayed that teammates were praising United as the best side they had encountered in some time. The play in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.
Although it is difficult to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be caused by his remarks regarding superiors with even worse histories—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by atrocious fortune. Had fitness issues for key players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other pivotal individuals, he could still be in the role—perhaps even.
A New Era Begins
Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a relatively stable scenario. Important figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent management of this skilled group ought to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.
The Clarets' Daunting Task
Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to make things easy. Despite boasting only a dozen points and suffering defeats in three of their most recent five games, their performances have at times been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Manager Parker will surely have his side fired up to take the game to opponents who are set to play an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year.
Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.
