John McGinn warns Manchester United of big loss as Tielemans arrives

On Saturday, Youri Tielemans stepped onto Old Trafford for his Manchester United debut against Hull, a moment captured in a Getty Images picture. Aston Villa captain John McGinn called the Belgian’s departure a ‘big loss’, praising the unseen brilliance he brings to the Red Devils.

The 29‑year‑old swapped Villa Park for Old Trafford this summer, with the Red Devils signing the midfielder for a reported £35 million. His move marked the end of three seasons at Aston Villa.

Villa tenure and impact

During his time at Aston Villa, Tielemans featured in 134 matches across all competitions. He contributed ten goals in those appearances.

Aston Villa captain John McGinn described the departure as a ‘big loss’ for the club. He called the Belgian ‘unbelievable professional’ with exceptional work rate and quality.

McGinn recalled initially judging Tielemans as out of shape when he arrived from Leicester in 2023. He later admitted the midfielder proved the opposite, becoming an example of professionalism for the squad. Tielemans is a Belgium international.

Leadership and United challenge

McGinn rates Tielemans as a 100 percent leader, saying he sets standards on and off the pitch. He joked about trying to tempt him with a Coke or a cookie after a game, but the Belgian always follows the training regime to the letter.

Tielemans now faces stiff competition in Manchester United’s midfield, with Andrey Santos and Bruno Fernandes already established. He also competes with newcomer Carlos Baleba, added during the summer revamp. McGinn noted that despite myths about his body shape, Tielemans is ‘fit as a fiddle’ and reliable.

He made his United debut on Saturday against Hull, starting alongside Santos and Fernandes in a 2‑0 loss. Kobbie Mainoo came off the bench, and the match was captured in a PA Wire picture.

Michael Carrick’s side returns on Sunday to face newly‑promoted Ipswich Town. Fans can Get ahead of the season by signing up for the weekly football newsletter.