Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after suggesting Manchester United were a bigger club than his former team.
Apology to Villa fans
The Belgium midfielder, 29, joined Manchester United from Aston Villa this summer after the club triggered a £35m release clause in his contract.
Tielemans spent three seasons at Villa Park after moving from Leicester City in 2023. He made 134 appearances and scored 10 goals for the club.
Comments spark backlash
During Manchester United’s pre-season tour, Tielemans praised Aston Villa for helping him return to his best form before saying there were “clubs above Villa” and that Manchester United was one of them.
The comments upset some Villa supporters, prompting the midfielder to address the situation on Instagram.
Tielemans admits mistake
Tielemans said he never intended to offend Aston Villa or its supporters and expressed his gratitude for his time at the club.
He admitted that his choice of words was a mistake and apologised, adding that he would be more careful with his comments in the future.
New chapter at Manchester United
Tielemans signed a five-year contract with Manchester United in July, keeping him at Old Trafford until 2031.
The midfielder described the transfer as the result of years of dedication to football and said joining such a historic club was an incredible moment in his career.
Villa years
Tielemans played an important role during his time at Villa, although injuries limited his involvement last season.
Separate calf and ankle problems restricted him to 35 appearances in all competitions, his lowest total during his time in English football.
He will now look to establish himself at Manchester United as the club prepares for the new Premier League season.
Final pre-season fixtures
Manchester United will face AC Milan in their final pre-season match, while Aston Villa will take on Borussia Monchengladbach.
Both clubs are preparing for the start of the new Premier League campaign next weekend.
