Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to public noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three formation with wide defenders and opted to deploy an orthodox four-man defense with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a back six in the closing stages as his side clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably stated that not even the Pope could force him to tweak his approach, Amorim insists the ability to play with varied setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were faring well enough - or else it would look as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the players to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Today is a distinct time. We don't have a lot of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"When media discuss changing the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our system, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a more complete squad because when all the personnel are back, we are not going to play with a back three all the time."
Squad Challenges Continue
With just two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the precise date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
