Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's formation due to media pressure would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and instead use an standard back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a back six in the closing minutes as his squad held on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I lacked the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Today is a different time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"When the press criticize altering the system constantly, I cannot change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when our full complement of players return, we are not planning to use a back three exclusively."
Injury Challenges Continue
With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "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 captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
