Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary back three formation with wing-backs and opted to use an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once memorably remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the ability to play with varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were doing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the personnel to play well in a back three, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"The goal was to forge an style. Currently is a separate time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever media talk about changing the system repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"We will develop into a better team because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to employ a back three exclusively."
Injury Issues Loom Large
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.