Youri Tielemans has publicly apologized to Aston Villa supporters following comments that upset fans after his transfer to Manchester United.

The Belgian midfielder moved to Manchester United in July for £35 million, after the club activated a release clause in his Aston Villa contract. Tielemans had previously played a key role in helping Villa secure the Europa League title last season, ending a 30-year trophy drought for the club.

In recent remarks, Tielemans acknowledged joining Manchester United because they are a bigger club than Aston Villa, a statement that drew criticism from Villa fans who felt their club was being diminished.

Addressing the backlash on social media, Tielemans said, "I 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." He added, "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."

Tielemans, who joined Villa from Leicester City in 2023 and scored in the Europa League final against Freiburg, described his move to Manchester United as the result of years of dedication to football. He is expected to make his Premier League debut for United in their season opener against Hull City on August 22.