Boss Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and chose to deploy an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once famously remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim asserts the option to utilize varied formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the players to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he commented.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We lack a lot of players, and we have to adjust, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the supporters.
"When media talk about changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We will develop into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
