Youri Tielemans has joined the Belgian national team shortly after returning to competitive play. The 28-year-old Aston Villa midfielder recently recovered from a significant ankle injury and came on as a substitute in Villa’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United just before the break. His agent, Bob Claes, informed Het Laatste Nieuws, as shown by Sport Witness, that Tielemans always planned to join Belgium’s squad. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery spoke with the Belgian national team to manage Tielemans’ playing time carefully during these international matches, which is a sensible approach given the player’s recent absence.
Agent explains Tielemans’ commitment to Belgium despite recent injury
Claes shared insights into Tielemans’ character, noting that some players lead without wearing an armband and that Tielemans fits this description. He emphasized that the captaincy holds great importance for Tielemans, making it a point of pride for him and something he takes seriously.
Claes also highlighted Tielemans’ values, hard work, and intelligence as reasons for his popularity. He acknowledged that Tielemans is always looking for ways to improve and is open to feedback. Coach Rudi Garcia officially made Tielemans the permanent captain of Belgium in September 2025, a role he assumed after Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois rotated as captains following Eden Hazard’s retirement in 2022.
“There are players who don’t need the captain’s armband to show leadership, and others who wear it but lack that quality. Youri belongs to the former. Wearing that armband is a significant honor for him, and he approaches it with seriousness.”
“Youri is a well-raised individual who sets high standards in work ethic and intelligence. Working with him is a pleasure. He continuously seeks improvement while remaining receptive to dialogue.”
Does Tielemans’ dedication reflect Emery’s vision for Villa?
Tielemans joined Aston Villa in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer after leaving Leicester City. He had an impressive 2024-25 season, scoring five goals and providing ten assists across 53 matches while winning both the Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season awards. He scored the winning goal in the 2021 FA Cup final and is currently the captain of the national team. His decision to join Belgium after an injury reflects his mindset and the professional standards expected by Emery at Villa Park.
Garcia has referred to Tielemans as the bridge between Belgium’s “golden generation” and the younger players, making him a vital asset for both club and country. With 77 caps for Belgium, including ten goals and 11 assists, he has substantial experience, having participated in two World Cups and two European Championships. His consistent performance, coupled with Claes’ comments, showcases his character, pushing those around him to excel.
This development is promising for Aston Villa. Emery’s squad did not just secure a skilled player; they gained a leader willing to step up despite recent treatment. Such qualities are rare, indicating that Aston Villa has a key figure in the locker room whose contributions extend beyond mere statistics. Belgium will face friendlies against the United States and Mexico during this international window, and if his fitness is managed well, Tielemans should return to Villa in peak condition for the remainder of the season.