Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wide defenders and chose to use an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a back six in the closing stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once notably stated that even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to play with different formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I lacked the players to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he commented.
"The goal was to build an style. Currently is a different time. We don't have a full complement of players, and we must be flexible, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When media discuss altering the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our system, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not planning to play with a back three in every match."
Squad Issues Persist
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Players
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
