Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to field an standard four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his side clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the option to utilize different setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Today is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to be flexible, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever you talk about changing the formation all the time, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to adapt.
"We are going to develop into a more complete team because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to employ a back three in every match."
Squad Crisis Continue
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
