Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans has joined Manchester United, bringing experience and leadership to the club’s midfield ahead of the upcoming Premier League season. The 29-year-old completed his move after seven years in the Midlands, where he played for Leicester City and Aston Villa. Tielemans arrives as part of a new phase under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, who is tasked with revitalizing the squad following recent managerial changes.
Tielemans expressed enthusiasm about working under Carrick, a former Premier League-winning midfielder and newly appointed United manager. Their shared experience in the central midfield role has fostered a positive connection between player and coach. “He was really cool and positive,” Tielemans said of Carrick, highlighting the confidence he gained knowing the manager sought a midfielder with a similar playing style. The pair previously faced each other on the pitch, adding an element of familiarity ahead of their collaboration at Old Trafford.
The Belgian international also referenced conversations with former Leicester teammates Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire, both of whom have ties to Manchester United. Maguire remains part of United’s squad, while Evans has transitioned into a coaching role with the first team. Their recommendations reportedly influenced Carrick’s decision to sign Tielemans. “Jonny always spoke highly of the club and was very positive,” Tielemans noted. “Knowing that these guys have good things to say about me was encouraging.”
Tielemans brings considerable international experience, having captained Belgium at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. He played a pivotal role in Belgium’s dramatic round of 16 comeback against Senegal, scoring the equalizer late in regular time and netting the winning penalty during extra time. This tournament marked his third World Cup appearance, and he has accumulated over 90 caps since debuting as a teenager. Tielemans played in Belgium’s third-place match against England in 2018, gaining valuable experience in high-pressure international fixtures.
Looking ahead, Tielemans is preparing for his Old Trafford debut in United’s opening English Football League Cup match against Ipswich Town on August 30. While he acknowledged the challenge of fully grasping the scale of playing for a club of Manchester United’s stature, he remains focused on contributing his skills and adapting to the Premier League’s intense style. “I’m here to play football and give my best,” he said. “The intensity is so different from any other league, but I will try to replicate what I have done and hopefully do even better.”