Youri Tielemans apologises to Aston Villa

Manchester United have looked to add more control and experience to their midfield during the summer transfer window.

Andrey Santos was the first major addition to the engine room, arriving from Chelsea after United negotiated a deal for the Brazilian.

The Reds then turned their attention to a more experienced midfielder in the figure of Youri Tielemans who could bring composure and technical quality to the centre of the pitch.

The latest signing has already featured during United’s pre-season preparations, including matches against Paris Saint-Germain and Leeds United.

With almost 600 senior appearances behind him across Monaco, Leicester City and Aston Villa, Tielemans also brings 90 Belgium caps into Carrick’s squad.

Youri Tielemans has now explained his excitement at joining Manchester United after the Reds activated his £35million release clause to bring him across from Aston Villa.

Speaking from United’s pre-season training camp in County Kildare, the 29-year-old made clear just how highly he regards his new club.

“I am very thankful to Aston Villa,” he added.

“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.”

Those comments did not go down well with Villa supporters, who criticised their former midfielder across social media.

Youri Tielemans issues apology

Tielemans subsequently addressed the backlash by posting an apology 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,” posted the new Man Utd player.

“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.”

United did not need to negotiate a transfer fee with Villa because of the release clause in Tielemans’ contract, allowing the Reds to secure their second midfield signing of the summer after Santos.

Tielemans’ style has also drawn comparisons to Carrick, with the Belgian offering the kind of deep-lying technical presence that could become important to United’s new-look midfield.