Youri Tielemans has spoken candidly about his recent transfer from Aston Villa to Manchester United, acknowledging that while he is deeply grateful to Villa, he recognises that United represent a step up in his career.
The midfielder completed his move to Manchester United this summer after the club activated a £35 million release clause in his contract. Tielemans had an impressive season at Villa, notably contributing to their Europa League triumph over Freiburg, where he also scored during the final.
Previously, Manchester United had pursued Tielemans on two occasions while he was with Leicester City, but those bids were unsuccessful. This time, the 26-year-old seized the opportunity with enthusiasm.
READ MORE: DWP to Notify Benefits Claimants Before Suspending Driving Licences
READ MORE: John McGinn Predicts Breakthrough Season for Aston Villa Teen Sensation Brian Madjo
Speaking to the BBC, Tielemans said, “There had been two times that I spoke with the club, but it did not achieve anything. I was very calm. I was not expecting much this summer, to be fair. I was just focused on my football, on the World Cup, and on trying to perform at my best for my country.
“But you know every summer something can happen, and obviously I was aware of the clause. 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.
“It is a great achievement for any footballer to end up here. It means you have done well in your career. But it does not end there. I want to be successful.”
In the previous season, Tielemans featured in 37 games for Villa, with his influence pivotal in their European success. Now at Old Trafford, he aims to bolster United’s midfield with goals and creativity as the club returns to the Champions League under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Tielemans has already developed a promising connection with fellow midfielder Bruno Fernandes and looks forward to reuniting with striker Marcus Rashford, who he played alongside at Villa prior to last season.
Reflecting on Rashford, Tielemans added, “He was great. There had been so much talk about him, bringing pressure and the media around him, but he was so good.
“He was very humble and hard-working, and from the first training session, you could tell his touch and acceleration were just amazing. That was what we needed at the time. He did many good things, and hopefully, he can bring them here.”
Tielemans’ move to Manchester United marks a significant chapter in his career as he seeks to establish himself at one of English football’s most storied clubs and pursue further success on both domestic and European stages.