Youri Tielemans Reveals the Unsung Hero Behind His Manchester United Move

Manchester United’s newest midfield signing, Youri Tielemans, has lifted the lid on an unexpected figure who helped shape his move to Old Trafford. While fans have praised Michael Carrick and the club’s recruitment team for securing the Belgian international, Tielemans has revealed that former United defender Jonny Evans quietly played a key role behind the scenes.

The 29-year-old completed his £35 million transfer from Aston Villa, signing a five-year contract after making it clear he wanted to join Manchester United this summer. Although Villa were reluctant to lose one of their most experienced midfielders, Tielemans was determined to take the next step in his career.

Jonny Evans’ Influence

Speaking after his unveiling, Tielemans explained that Jonny Evans spoke highly of him to Michael Carrick.

> “Jonny has been a big influence. He spoke with the manager about me, my character and my personality. I’ve always kept in touch with Jonny. He’s such a great guy.”



The two shared a successful spell together at Leicester City, famously winning the 2021 FA Cup, where Tielemans scored the stunning winning goal against Chelsea.

Evans has since retired from playing and now serves as part of Michael Carrick’s coaching staff, making his recommendation even more valuable during the transfer process.

Excited to Work Under Michael Carrick

Tielemans also expressed his excitement about learning from Carrick, who enjoyed an outstanding playing career as one of Manchester United’s finest midfielders.

The Belgian believes Carrick’s experience will help him improve further.

> “I’m looking forward to working with the manager. As a midfielder, he can give me a lot of tips, and I can learn from him.”



He also praised the progress United made during the second half of last season, insisting the club’s ambition convinced him that Old Trafford was the right destination.

Ready for the Challenge

Having captained Belgium during the World Cup and previously worn the captain’s armband at Leicester City, Tielemans arrives with leadership, experience and composure in midfield.

Despite missing Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final after suffering a late injury in the warm-up, he remains one of Europe’s most reliable midfielders and believes he is ready to help United compete for major honours.

Dreaming of Old Trafford

Tielemans admitted he has always admired the atmosphere at Old Trafford as an opponent and cannot wait to experience it wearing the famous red shirt.

> “As an away player, it’s a tough ground to come to. You can feel the atmosphere straight away. To play for the home team is going to be nice.”



Final Thoughts

Manchester United haven’t just signed a technically gifted midfielder—they’ve added a proven leader with Premier League experience and a winning mentality. The fact that Jonny Evans personally vouched for Tielemans’ character suggests this signing was about much more than footballing ability.

If Tielemans can bring the same quality, leadership and consistency he showed at Leicester City and Aston Villa, Manchester United supporters could be witnessing one of the smartest signings of the summer.