Darren Fletcher faces the daunting task of lifting the gloom at Old Trafford as he takes temporary charge of Manchester United for tonight's Premier League clash with Burnley.
Fletcher's Mission: Restoring United's DNA
The former midfielder, who stepped up from his role as Under-18s head coach following Ruben Amorim's dismissal, is set for his first senior game in the dugout on Wednesday 7 January 2026. He will be assisted by former teammate Jonny Evans, who retired just eight months ago.
With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in talks over a potential caretaker return, Fletcher is desperate to make an immediate impression on the club's hierarchy. His philosophy is clear: a return to the fast, attacking football synonymous with the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
"The fast attacks, it’s proper United," Fletcher said last August. "I’ve been showing the old clips... trying to show a bit of that Man United DNA." He is expected to ditch Amorim's favoured 3-4-3 formation in favour of the 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 systems he used successfully with the youth team.
Team News: Fernandes Returns, AFCON Trio Absent
Fletcher's short reign begins with significant squad challenges. He will be without the trio of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui, who are still at the Africa Cup of Nations.
There is better news regarding captain Bruno Fernandes and youngster Kobbie Mainoo. Fletcher revealed both have returned to training, with Fernandes and Mason Mount pushing to be involved against Burnley. Mainoo, who trained on Monday, could make his first Premier League start of the season. Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt remain unavailable.
Metro's Predicted Manchester United Lineup
Fletcher is determined to stamp his authority on the team immediately. A key decision will be restoring Bruno Fernandes to a more advanced creative role.
With a lack of natural width, Patrick Dorgu could again be utilised as an outlet on the right flank after promising recent displays. Youngster Shea Lacey, a substitute since December, may also earn minutes from the bench if the game allows.
Fletcher's twin sons, Jack and Tyler, have been in recent matchday squads, but their father may lean on more experienced heads for this crucial fixture. The Clarets' defence will be tested by a United side eager to prove a point.
Burnley vs Manchester United kicks off at 8:15pm tonight and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming available via Sky Go and NOW TV for subscribers.
