Youri Tielemans has issued a public apology to Aston Villa supporters after his recent comments suggesting Manchester United are a level 'above' his former club. The 29-year-old Belgian midfielder, who completed a £35million move to Old Trafford this summer, took to Instagram to express regret over his choice of words.
Transfer details and Villa career
Tielemans joined Manchester United after the club triggered a £35million release clause in his contract at Villa Park. This came after United had already secured the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea, further strengthening their midfield options.
The midfielder spent three years with Aston Villa, having joined from Leicester City in 2023. During his time at Villa, he made 134 appearances across all competitions, scoring ten goals and providing 25 assists. He was part of the squad that won the Europa League under Unai Emery, marking the club's first European trophy in 44 years.
Controversial remarks and backlash
Ahead of his unofficial debut, Tielemans made comments that were perceived by some Villa fans as disrespectful. He said: 'I am very thankful to Aston Villa. I owe them the world. It is a great club, we did amazing things, and they have put me back to my best level. But there are clubs above Villa, and Manchester United is one of them.'
He added: 'It is a great achievement for any footballer to end up here. It means you have done well in your career. But it does not end there. I want to be successful.'
These remarks triggered an online backlash from Villa supporters, who had recently been singing his praises. Tielemans made his unofficial United debut in a 1-1 draw against European champions Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg. He featured again against Leeds United on Wednesday night at Dublin's Croke Park, coming on for the final 30 minutes.
Apology and best wishes
Less than 24 hours after the Leeds match, Tielemans posted an apology on Instagram. He wrote: 'Never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or undermine the institution of Aston Villa Football Club which I massively respect and I'm grateful to for the past three years.'
He continued: 'I must however admit my mistake and apologise for my choice of words, will be more careful in the future.' Tielemans also sent his best wishes to his former club, who begin their Premier League campaign away to Brighton in just over a week's time. He concluded: 'Wishing the club the best in the future. Youri.'
