Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's formation due to public scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to deploy an standard four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably remarked that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the capacity to experiment with varied formations has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to play well in that system, but it was the commencement of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an style. Currently is a different juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to be flexible, so they see why we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"When the press criticize altering the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the moment to evolve.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when all the players are back, we are not planning to play with a back three all the time."
Availability Crisis Persist
With just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Key Players
While the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable 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 competition.
