Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his customary back three setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an standard four-man defense with two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side dug in for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the capacity to experiment with different formations has always been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the moment to evolve.
"This will help us become a stronger side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a severely stretched squad, with multiple senior stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Remains
However, the Portuguese star will likely still be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
