Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have been "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and opted to deploy an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a back six in the final phase as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies 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 noise.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I lacked the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the commencement of a project," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an style. Now is a different time. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press criticize altering the system all the time, I cannot change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"We will develop into a more complete squad because when all the players return, we are not going to use a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Loom Large
Having just two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to 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 understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
