Youri Tielemans has apologised to Aston Villa supporters after comments he made following his move to Manchester United prompted a backlash.

The Belgium international completed a £35m switch to Old Trafford earlier this summer after United activated the release clause in his Villa contract.

During his first media interviews as a United player, Tielemans praised Villa for helping him rediscover his best form before saying there were “clubs above Villa” and describing Manchester United as one of them.

The remarks were criticised by some Villa fans, leading the midfielder to issue a public apology on social media.

“Yesterday’s comments were never intended to disrespect Aston Villa or anyone connected with the club,” Tielemans wrote on Instagram.

“I have enormous respect for the club and I’m grateful for everything over the past three years.

“I accept that I chose the wrong words and I’m sorry for that. I’ll be more careful in future.

“I wish Aston Villa nothing but success going forward.”

Tielemans excited for big club challenge

Tielemans joined Villa from Leicester City in 2023 and went on to make 134 appearances, scoring 10 goals during his three seasons at Villa Park.

After helping Belgium reach the World Cup quarter-finals this summer, he signed a long-term contract with United that runs until 2031.

Injuries disrupted his final campaign at Villa, with calf and ankle problems limiting him to 35 appearances in all competitions – his fewest in a season since arriving in England.

Describing his move to Old Trafford after it was confirmed, Tielemans said joining United represented the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition and called it “an incredible feeling” to sign for one of football’s biggest clubs.

United conclude their pre-season schedule against AC Milan on Saturday, while Villa face Borussia Monchengladbach before both clubs begin their Premier League campaigns next weekend.