Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa following comments
Manchester United star Youri Tielemans has issued an apology to his former side, Aston Villa, for his “choice of words,” reports BritPanorama.
The Belgian midfielder joined Old Trafford this summer on a five-year contract after United activated his £35 million release clause. Tielemans, 29, enjoyed a successful spell at Villa after moving from Leicester City, where he scored 10 goals, including a critical strike in the Europa League final last season.
His recent remarks during a pre-season interview drew ire from some Villa fans. During that interaction, he expressed gratitude towards Villa, stating, “I am very thankful to Aston Villa. I owe them the world.” However, he also asserted that while the club was admirable, “there are clubs above Villa, and Manchester United is one of them,” emphasising the prestige of playing for a top club.
In response to the backlash, Tielemans acknowledged his misstep via social media, writing, “Never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or the institution of Aston Villa Football Club, which I massively respect and I’m grateful for the past 3 years. I must however admit my mistake and apologise for my choice of words, will be more careful in the future. Wishing the club the best in the future.”
Tielemans, who aided Belgium’s quarter-final run in the recent World Cup, has signed with United until 2031. He and the team have one last pre-season match against AC Milan, managed by former United boss Ruben Amorim, before kicking off their Premier League campaign against newly-promoted Hull City.
As United prepares for the season ahead, it remains to be seen how the dynamic between new signings and existing players unfolds; particularly for someone like Tielemans, whose recent comments highlight the complex interplay of loyalty and ambition in football.
