Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to field an traditional back four with two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately became a back six in the closing phase as his squad dug in for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously stated that even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize different setups has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were doing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I lacked the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to establish an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they understand why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press discuss altering the system repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"We will grow into a stronger side because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not intending to use a back three all the time."
Squad Issues Loom Large
With only two wins in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on offering input.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys 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 Injured Players
While the exact timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
