Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I don't have the squad to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the commencement of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an identity. Currently is a distinct juncture. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"When the press talk about changing the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to evolve.
"This will help us become a more complete squad because when all the personnel return, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."
Squad Challenges Continue
With just two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted roster, with multiple senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit 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 allow him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Endures
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
While the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
