#2 Performance
One of the key reasons why United has been frustrating to watch in the last five seasons was the performance. The team forgot their identity by playing without a workable system. Under Ole, the team showed some signs of life but that quickly faded over time. The board should have waited to see if the team could put on a decent performance until the end of the season. Ultimately, that was the case which throws shade at Woodward. Failing to win against teams such as Huddersfield, being outplayed by Watford at home isn't the United anyone would want to see.
#1 Results
In the end, it is the results that count. The decision makers should have waited to see the outcome at the end of the season. Yes, the team had a great start but that didn't guarantee success such as FA Cup, Champions League and a top four finish that the team was still in contention for at the time. At the season's end, United have nothing to show for. They have been poor in every department and qualifying for Europe, albeit the second tier competition, is a kind mercy.