Tielemans' £35m Manchester United Move Called Mythic

Manchester United return to Premier League action against Bournemouth on Sunday under growing pressure on head coach Michael Carrick, following a 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como.

Youri Tielemans has made 11 appearances since completing his £35 million ($47m) move from Aston Villa, featuring in the Premier League, Carabao Cup and Champions League. United have won only two of those matches.

Quick facts

Tielemans joined Manchester United from Aston Villa for £35m ($47m).
The Belgian midfielder has played 11 times for United in all competitions.
United have won twice with Tielemans involved so far.
Carrick faces calls for an immediate improvement after the 4-1 loss at Como.
Bournemouth visit Old Trafford on Sunday.

The 29-year-old arrived after three years at Villa, where he rebuilt his form and added further English success to an already decorated career. Tielemans previously lifted the FA Cup with Leicester City and the Europa League during his time in England.

He has made no secret of his affection for United from his early years as a football fan. Although talks with the club had previously gone nowhere, a formal move this summer changed the picture.

Tielemans said he had not expected a transfer, having concentrated on his football and the World Cup with Belgium. He knew a release clause could trigger interest, though, and regarded the United opportunity as a major career step.

He thanked Villa for restoring him to his best level, but accepted that United sit among the clubs players find hard to reject. Tielemans has made clear that simply reaching Old Trafford is not his target; he wants trophies there.

Former Premier League defender Albert believes the pull of United remains powerful despite the club no longer being the dominant force it was under Sir Alex Ferguson. He said Tielemans’ decision was understandable given United’s global stature and history.

Albert was surprised that the Belgian chose the move, but argued that only a small group of clubs — including Manchester City, Real Madrid, Barcelona and possibly Bayern Munich — could realistically persuade a player to turn United down.

Questions have nevertheless followed the deal. Tielemans has yet to take control of United’s midfield consistently, while Mason Mount is viewed as a capable existing option. There is also scrutiny of whether Carrick received sufficient backing from the board in the last transfer window.

United now need a response against Bournemouth. Carrick’s side must find consistency quickly, with the club’s Champions League setback adding to the demand for results at Old Trafford.