The 29‑year‑old Youri Tielemans joined Manchester United in July 2026 after a £35m release clause was triggered. The five‑year deal saw him move from Aston Villa, where he had already earned 668 games for club and country.

Tielemans said he had been very calm during the summer, focusing on his World Cup duties and not expecting much. He thanked Villa, saying he owed them the world and that Man Utd is a club above them.

He aims to bring goals to United, noting a partnership with skipper Bruno Fernandes is developing. He also highlighted former teammates Jonny Evans and Marcus Rashford, who helped him settle in, and said the duo’s chemistry will benefit the team. He praised Rashford’s work ethic and touch, noting how it has influenced his own play.

After pulling out of Belgium’s World Cup quarter‑final against Spain due to an overload bind, Tielemans said he feels good but his body could not cope. He stressed the importance of rest and that coach Michael Carrick wants him to be free to organise the team, maintain structure, and press in key areas.