Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox four-man defense with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a back six in the closing minutes as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once memorably remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the option to utilize alternative setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Currently is a separate moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must adjust, so they see why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when all the players are available, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Persist
Having only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
The Captain's Role Remains
However, the 31-year-old will likely still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
