Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's formation due to public scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead use an standard back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a back six in the latter phase as his squad held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize varied setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood maybe I lacked the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a full complement of players, and we must adapt, so they understand why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press talk about changing the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us become a more complete team because when our full complement of players are available, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Availability Crisis Loom Large
Having only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his boss to let him to return after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
While the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured 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 continental competition.
