Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an standard back four with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his squad held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize varied setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were doing well enough - lest it would look as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the players to excel in a back three, but it was the start of a process," he commented.
"The goal was to forge an identity. Now is a separate juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the faithful.
"When media criticize changing the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our system, that becomes the right time to evolve.
"This will help us become a stronger team because when our full complement of players are available, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a depleted roster, with multiple senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the exact date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
