Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to use an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a back six in the latter phase as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the option to play with alternative formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were faring sufficiently well - otherwise it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I realized maybe I lacked the squad to excel in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adjust, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"When media criticize changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the moment to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a stronger side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."
Squad Issues Loom Large
Having only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a depleted squad, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
