Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wide defenders and instead use an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his squad clung on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once famously stated that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize different setups has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would look as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"The goal was to forge an philosophy. Today is a distinct time. We lack a full complement of players, and we need be flexible, so they understand the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the supporters.
"When media talk about altering the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will think I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a better squad because when all the players are back, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Availability Crisis Continue
Having just two victories in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the specific timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
