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Manchester United’s new midfielder, Youri Tielemans, has landed in trouble with his former supporters.

The Belgium international completed a surprise move to Manchester United in the middle of July.

Tielemans had been linked with the club on several occasions in recent years, but United moved decisively this summer by triggering his release clause.

The midfielder has made two substitute appearances so far in pre-season, playing against Paris Saint-Germain and Leeds United.

The former Aston Villa man was on the pitch for 30 minutes against Leeds United in Dublin and converted his penalty in the Red Devils’ shootout victory at Croke Park.

Before joining Manchester United, Tielemans spent three years at Aston Villa, where he made 134 appearances and scored 10 goals.

His final game for the club was the Europa League final, and he scored a brilliant goal to help seal the win.

However, after completing his move to Old Trafford, he upset some of his former fans when he said that “there are clubs above Aston Villa and Manchester United is one of them.”

Although that view is not especially controversial, Aston Villa supporters did not react well to the remark.

Tielemans has since gone on social media to explain his position.

He wrote on Instagram: “never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or undermine the institution of Aston Villa Football Club which I massively respect and I’m grateful to for the past three 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 will now hope to start his first pre-season match against AC Milan on Saturday and then, no doubt, against Hull City on Saturday 22nd August when the Premier League season gets under way.