While the fans are buzzing to see a "Fergie disciple" back in the dugout, the question remains: Is Fletcher the man to lead a new era, or is he simply keeping the seat warm for a bigger name?
The Fletcher Rescue Mission: What You Need to Know
Darren Fletcher isn't just a former midfielder; he has been the club's "Swiss Army Knife" behind the scenes. After a successful stint as technical director and a dominant run with the Under-18s (who won 7 of their first 8 games this season), Fletcher is finally getting his shot at the top job.
• The Debut: His first test is a high-pressure clash against Burnley this Wednesday.
• The Mandate: Reports suggest INEOS has appointed him "until the end of the season," giving them a six-month window to scout a permanent replacement.
• The Locker Room: Fletcher is famously close with the younger core, including Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, which could heal the rift left by Amorim’s "tactical rigidity."
The "Permanent" Shortlist: Who is Lurking?
Despite Fletcher’s appointment, the bookmakers are already slashing odds on world-class replacements. If the Scotsman doesn't hit the ground running, one of these three could be in the dugout by February:
| Candidate | Current Role | Why They’re Linked |
| Oliver Glasner | Crystal Palace | The betting favorite (5/2). Fresh off an FA Cup win and known for high-intensity football. |
| Gareth Southgate | Unattached | A favorite of Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Seen as the "safe pair of hands" to stabilize the culture. |
| Michael Carrick | Middlesbrough | The romantic choice. Another United legend who has proven his tactical mettle in the Championship. |
The Verdict: Can Fletcher Pull a "Solskjaer"?
We’ve seen this movie before. In 2018, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer arrived as an interim and won 14 of his first 19 games to earn the permanent job. Fletcher has the "United DNA," but with the club currently sitting 6th in the table and out of European competition, there is zero room for error.
The fans want a winner, not just a legend. If Fletcher thrashes Burnley and stabilizes the defense, the "Fletcher In" campaign will start before the weekend.
Do you think Fletcher should be given the job permanently if he wins his first five games? Let us know in the comments!