Boss Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three formation with wide defenders and opted to deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his side held on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim insists the option to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were doing well enough - lest it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to build an style. Today is a distinct time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that becomes the moment to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger team because when all the players are back, we are not planning to use a back three exclusively."
Availability Challenges Continue
Having just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven senior players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the precise date for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
