Now is optimal to change Manchester United's formation - the manager declares.

Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's formation due to media noise would have meant "his demise" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.

He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his squad dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.

While he once notably stated that even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim insists the capacity to play with varied setups has always been part of his long-term vision.

Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were doing sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.

"When I came here last season, I realized maybe I lacked the players to play well in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.

"We were trying to forge an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they see why we are making changes.

"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the supporters.

"Whenever media discuss changing the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.

"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the right time to adapt.

"We are going to become a more complete team because when all the players return, we are not intending to use a back three exclusively."

Availability Challenges Persist

With just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been playing well.

He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.

That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return following his muscle injury.

"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."

Fernandes' Influence Endures

Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.

"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.

"There are negative aspects at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects 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 Injured Personnel

Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.