Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have signaled "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this at times transformed into a back six in the latter phase as his squad clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once memorably said that even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the option to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever media criticize altering the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the moment to adapt.
"We will develop into a better team because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to use three defenders exclusively."
Injury Issues Continue
With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure 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 one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pushing his manager to let him to return following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Remains
However, the 31-year-old will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
