Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual back three setup with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a back six in the latter minutes as his side held on for a crucial result - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were doing well enough - or else it would seem as if he was succumbing to external noise.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Today is a distinct moment. We are missing a lot of players, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever you discuss changing the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the right time to change.
"This will help us develop into a stronger squad because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Availability Crisis Persist
Having just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a severely stretched squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
