Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after remarks suggesting his move to Manchester United was a step up. The 29-year-old Belgium midfielder joined United this summer on a five-year deal after they activated a £35m release clause in his Villa contract.
Tielemans spent three seasons at Villa Park after arriving from Leicester City in 2023, making 134 appearances and scoring 10 goals. While on United’s pre-season tour, he praised Villa for helping him rediscover his best form but added that some clubs are above Villa, naming United as one of them.
Following criticism from some Villa fans, he posted on Instagram to say he intended no disrespect to the club, expressed his gratitude for the past three years, admitted his choice of words was poor, apologised, and said he would be more careful in future. He also wished Villa all the best.