Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead use an standard four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim maintains the option to utilize varied setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I came here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the players to play well in that system, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Now is a distinct moment. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we need adapt, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"When you criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Issues Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a depleted roster, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to return following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
Although the exact date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
