Manager Ruben Amorim contends that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary back three formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an traditional back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim maintains the capacity to play with different formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I came here last season, I realized perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"We were trying to build an style. Today is a separate juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they understand why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press talk about changing the system constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a more complete squad because when all the players are available, we are not intending to use three defenders in every match."
Squad Crisis Persist
Having only two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a depleted roster, with multiple senior stars already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
While the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
