Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead use an traditional back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a back six in the final stages as his side dug in for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize alternative setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he said.
"The goal was to build an style. Now is a distinct time. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the formation all the time, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted roster, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
