Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's formation due to public pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wing-backs and opted to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a back six in the closing stages as his squad held on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once famously said that not even the Pope could force him to tweak his approach, Amorim insists the ability to play with different formations has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to excel in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"It is not because of the demands of you guys, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the system repeatedly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to change.
"This will help us develop into a better side because when all the players return, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Persist
Having only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
