Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a back six in the closing minutes as his side clung on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the option to play with alternative setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the players to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Now is a different moment. We lack a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"When you discuss altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that becomes the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a more complete team because when our full complement of players are available, we are not going to use a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Continue
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pushing his manager to allow him to return following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Endures
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering guidance.
"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 constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific date for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
