Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the ability to play with different setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were doing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"When I came here last season, I realized maybe I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"We were trying to build an identity. Today is a separate juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss changing the system constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Loom Large
Having only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue providing input.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
