Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his team dug in for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once famously stated that even the Pope could force him to change his system, Amorim insists the option to play with alternative formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were faring sufficiently well - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I lacked the personnel to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"The goal was to forge an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the right time to adapt.
"We will grow into a better team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to play with three defenders all the time."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
Having only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing insight.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
