Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to deploy an traditional back four with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a back six in the latter minutes as his team clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with varied formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - lest it would look as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to build an style. Currently is a different time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the supporters.
"When the press discuss altering the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.
"This will help us develop into a better squad because when our full complement of players are available, we are not intending to use three defenders all the time."
Squad Issues Continue
Having only two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on offering guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
