Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters for suggesting Manchester United are a level 'above' his former team. The 29-year-old midfielder completed a £35million move to United after triggering a release clause in his Villa contract.
Three years at Villa Park
Tielemans spent three years with Villa after joining from Leicester City in 2023, scoring ten goals and providing 25 assists in 134 appearances. He helped Unai Emery's side win the Europa League, their first European trophy in 44 years.
Controversial comments
In remarks made before United's friendly matches, Tielemans said: 'I am very thankful to Aston Villa. I owe them the world. It is a great club, we did amazing things, and they have put me back to my best level. But there are clubs above Villa, and Manchester United is one of them.'
The comments sparked an online backlash from Villa fans. Tielemans made his unofficial United debut in a 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg and featured again against Leeds at Dublin's Croke Park.
Instagram apology
Less than 24 hours after the Leeds match, Tielemans posted on Instagram: 'Never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or undermine the institution of Aston Villa Football Club which I massively respect and I'm grateful to for the past three years. I must however admit my mistake and apologise for my choice of words, will be more careful in the future.'
He added: 'Wishing the club the best in the future. Youri.' Villa begin their Premier League campaign away to Brighton in just over a week.
