Tielemans Delivers as INEOS Backup Plan at Man United
The Belgium captain delivered an assist against Leeds despite being a secondary target during INEOS' summer transfer window.
Youri Tielemans set up Manchester United’s only goal in a 1-1 draw against Leeds United on Sunday, delivering his first Premier League goal contribution since arriving from Aston Villa. The result left United sitting 13th in the table.
The assist for Bryan Mbeumo in the 35th minute came from a player the club’s ownership group never intended to sign this summer.
INEOS executives targeted Aurelien Tchouameni, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes before pivoting to cheaper alternatives, according to recent reports. Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba were secondary options brought in after the primary targets proved unreachable.
Manager Michael Carrick praised the Belgium captain following the stalemate at Elland Road. “I’ve been really impressed with Youri,” Carrick told reporters. “He’s exactly what we thought and hoped for, bringing him into the group.”
“I think his experience, his presence, [and] his personality [are beneficial]. Youri’s definitely one of those where he’ll do anything you ask him for the benefit of the team.”
Carrick added that Tielemans was “right there today again at the front of it, leading the team” alongside other veteran players in the squad.
The £35 million transfer has started every match across all competitions since completing his move in July. Against Leeds, he played 84 minutes.
His statistical output reflected heavy involvement. According to FotMob, Tielemans created three chances (tied for the most by any player on the pitch), completed 77 percent of his passes, and attempted 10 final-third passes along with four line-breaking balls. He also registered two accurate crosses and two accurate long balls.
Defensively, he logged three clearances, two recoveries, one tackle and one interception.
United have spent heavily under INEOS control since Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquired his minority stake in early 2024, restructuring the football operations department entirely. The reliance on backup transfer targets highlights ongoing difficulties competing with elite European clubs for top-tier midfield talent. Tchouameni remained at Real Madrid, while Anderson and Fernandes stayed with their respective clubs after United failed to meet valuation demands.
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