Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have meant "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to field an standard back four with two central midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once famously said that not even the Pope could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the option to play with alternative formations has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were doing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Currently is a separate moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever you criticize altering the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, then is the right time to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a stronger side because when all the personnel are available, we are not planning to employ a back three exclusively."
Injury Issues Loom Large
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
