Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa after controversial Manchester United comments

Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans has issued a public apology to Aston Villa following remarks made during Manchester United’s pre‑season press conference that upset the club’s supporters. The 29‑year‑old, who completed a £35 million move from Villa to Old Trafford earlier this summer, said there were “clubs above Villa” and highlighted United as “one of them”, prompting a wave of criticism on social media.

Tielemans, who spent three seasons at Villa Park making 134 appearances and scoring ten goals, quickly sought to mend fences. In an Instagram story he wrote: “Never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or the institution of Aston Villa Football Club, which I massively respect and I'm grateful for the past 3 years. I must however admit my mistake and apologise for my choice of words, will be more careful in the future. Wishing the club the best in the future.”

The midfielder’s comments came as he praised United for helping him “get back to my best level” and described the move as a “great achievement”. However, Villa fans reacted strongly, with many taking to forums and Twitter to label the remarks as disrespectful to a club that helped revive his career after leaving Leicester City.

Manchester United’s hierarchy has not commented on the apology, but manager Erik ten Hag reiterated confidence in Tielemans, noting his “impressive 25‑minute cameo against PSG” and his ability to add creativity in midfield. Tielemans also spoke about adapting to the new system under interim boss Michael Carrick, saying, “He has got his structure… it might be different than what I have been used to before, but it is logical… when you follow those principles you can add your offensive qualities.”

Villa’s chairman, Nassef Sawiris, has not issued an official response, but the club’s supporters are expected to watch Tielemans closely when United travel to Villa Park on 16 January. The first meeting at Old Trafford is scheduled for 7 November, where the Belgian will face his former teammates for the first time.

The episode underscores the delicate balance players must strike when moving between rival clubs, especially when comments are perceived as diminishing a former side’s stature. Tielemans’ swift apology may help smooth relations ahead of the upcoming fixtures, but the episode will likely remain a talking point among Villa supporters throughout the season.