Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public noise would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead field an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a back six in the closing phase as his side dug in for a victory - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously said that not even the Pope could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim maintains the ability to experiment with alternative setups has always been part of his strategy.
However, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring well enough - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an style. Now is a separate juncture. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"When media criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, that becomes the moment to change.
"We are going to develop into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to employ three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Leadership Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
