Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa after Man Utd comments

Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after suggesting that Manchester United is a larger club than his former team. The Belgian midfielder recently stated that certain clubs exist above Villa and named Manchester United as one of them.

The 29-year-old midfielder used Instagram on Thursday to address the backlash from Villa fans. He stated that he never intended for his recent press comments to offend the club or its institution. Tielemans noted his massive respect for Villa and expressed gratitude for his three years at the club, admitting he made a mistake with his choice of words.

Tielemans moved to Old Trafford in July after Manchester United triggered a £35 million release clause in his contract. He joined United following a season where the club finished one position higher than Villa in the Premier League standings. The midfielder described the transfer as the result of years of dedication to the sport.

During his time with Aston Villa, Tielemans played a role in ending the club's 30-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League last season. He scored a goal in the final against Freiburg to help secure that title. He originally arrived at Villa from Leicester in 2023.

The midfielder is now preparing for his debut in the Premier League for Manchester United. His first expected appearance in the league will take place during the season opener against Hull on August 22.