Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary back three formation with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side held on for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the option to play with varied setups has remained part of his strategy.
However, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Now is a different juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you discuss altering the formation all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a better squad because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not intending to play with three defenders all the time."
Squad Issues Persist
Having just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Players
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
