Tielemans apologises to Villa fans for Man Utd remarks

What the report says

Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after comments he made about joining Manchester United drew criticism. The Belgium midfielder, 29, moved from Villa to Old Trafford this summer after United activated a £35m release clause in his contract, and he is understood to have signed a five-year deal with the club.

The remarks came during United’s pre-season tour, when Tielemans praised Villa for helping him return to top form but also said Manchester United were among the clubs “above” Villa. Some Villa fans reacted negatively, prompting him to address the issue on Instagram and say he had not intended to offend the club or its supporters.

In his apology, Tielemans said he respected Aston Villa, thanked the club for the past three years, and admitted he had used the wrong words. He also wished Villa well for the future. The episode highlights how sensitive player transfers can be when a departing footballer compares former and current clubs, especially between Premier League rivals.

Tielemans spent three seasons at Villa Park after arriving from Leicester City in 2023, making 134 appearances and scoring 10 goals. He signed for United in July, and the move ends a spell in which injuries limited his appearances last season. The new Premier League campaign is due to begin next week.