Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa after controversial Manchester United interview

Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa after controversial Manchester United interview

Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after comments he made about Manchester United during an interview following his summer move to Old Trafford.

The Belgian midfielder completed a £35 million move from Villa to United after the Red Devils activated the release clause in his contract. However, his first comments about the transfer quickly caused frustration among sections of the Villa fanbase.

Tielemans spoke positively about his three years at Villa and acknowledged the important role the club played in helping him rediscover his best form.

But he then suggested that Manchester United belonged to a level above his former side.

The midfielder’s comments did not go down well with some Villa supporters, particularly given the important contribution he made during his time at the club.

Tielemans subsequently moved to calm the situation, admitting that he had chosen his words poorly and insisting that he never intended to disrespect Aston Villa.

In a statement shared on social media, the 29-year-old said he was sorry if his comments had offended anyone and stressed that he remains grateful for everything the club did for him.

He also made it clear that he has enormous respect for Aston Villa and the people connected with the club.

Tielemans’ apology comes after a highly successful spell at Villa Park.

He joined Villa in 2023 following the expiration of his Leicester City contract and quickly became an important member of Unai Emery’s midfield.

During his three seasons at the club, he made 134 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing 25 assists. He was also part of the Villa side that enjoyed a memorable 2025/26 campaign.

The highlight came in the Europa League final, where Tielemans opened the scoring as Villa ended their long wait for a major European trophy.

His performances also helped Villa secure Champions League qualification on two occasions, making his departure a significant one for Emery’s side.

Despite the controversy surrounding his Manchester United comments, Tielemans appears keen to draw a line under the situation.

The Belgian has now turned his attention towards succeeding at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick, while Villa supporters will be hoping his apology helps preserve some of the goodwill built up during his three years at the club.

For Tielemans, the Manchester United move represents a new chapter in his career. But after his comments sparked an unexpected backlash, he has made it clear that his intention was never to diminish the club that played such an important role in his career.