I owe Villa the world but Man Utd are above them - Tielemans

What the report says

Manchester United midfielder Youri Tielemans has given his first extended interview since completing a £35m move from Aston Villa, saying the transfer fulfilled a long-running interest from Old Trafford and was “third time lucky” after earlier approaches in 2019 and 2022. BBC Sport reported that United activated a release clause in July to sign the Belgium international on a five-year deal while he was on World Cup duty.

Tielemans said he was grateful to Villa, where he felt he rediscovered his best form, but added that United are a bigger club. He spoke warmly about his former team-mates, including Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford, and said his early links with Bruno Fernandes already looked promising. Senior United staff have reportedly noticed how naturally the two midfielders combine.

The interview also underlined why United view him as a useful addition. Tielemans has been used as a creative central midfielder during a long career that began at Anderlecht as a teenager, and BBC Sport noted that United have wanted a player with his passing range and ability to help control matches. He said head coach Michael Carrick wants him to play with freedom while helping organise the team.

Tielemans also addressed his recent physical issue with Belgium, saying it came after a heavy run of games rather than a major injury. The move matters because it could give United more control in midfield and more support for Fernandes in advanced areas.