Head coach Ruben Amorim says that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to field an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his squad dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously stated that even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to utilize varied setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the squad to play well in that system, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to build an identity. Today is a different juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.
"When media talk about changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our system, then is the right time to evolve.
"We will become a better squad because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not intending to employ a back three all the time."
Squad Issues Continue
Having only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced 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 reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the specific date for the captain's return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
