Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to deploy an orthodox back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a back six in the final phase as his squad dug in for a win - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the option to play with alternative setups has remained part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were performing sufficiently well - otherwise it would seem as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to forge an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need adapt, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When the press criticize changing the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the right time to adapt.
"We will develop into a better team because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Squad Crisis Loom Large
With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he recovers, he heads to observe 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 true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
