Youri Tielemans has officially been handed the number 18 shirt at Manchester United following the completion of his move from Aston Villa.
The Belgium international completed his £35 million switch to Old Trafford earlier this week, signing a five-year contract as Michael Carrick continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
United confirmed that Tielemans will wear the number 18 shirt, a jersey previously worn by several well-known players at the club, including Bruno Fernandes, Ashley Young, Paul Scholes and, most recently, Casemiro.
The shirt became available after Casemiro’s departure this summer, giving Tielemans the chance to inherit a number with plenty of history at Old Trafford.
While squad numbers do not always carry significance, the 29-year-old will hope to make the shirt his own as he begins a new chapter in Manchester.
From Aston Villa to Old Trafford
Tielemans arrives after an impressive spell at Aston Villa, where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent midfielders under Unai Emery.
He helped Villa win the Europa League last season and also captained Belgium during their run to the World Cup quarter-finals.
Manchester United believe his experience and technical quality will strengthen the midfield, with the club highlighting his leadership, passing range and ability to control games.
The move also reunites Tielemans with a number of familiar Premier League opponents as United look to challenge higher up the table this season.
Tielemans’ Reaction
“It’s hard to describe just how proud I am to join Manchester United,” Tielemans said in a club statement.
“Signing for such a special club feels incredible, it is the culmination of years of dedication since I first fell in love with football.
“I have had the privilege of experiencing success in the game and it has only increased my determination to achieve more.
“The ambition from everyone at the club is extremely clear; we are all determined to push for the biggest trophies over the coming years.”
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Role at Manchester United
The midfielder is expected to play an important role under Carrick, bringing creativity and composure to the centre of the pitch alongside fellow summer signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea.
United’s recruitment this summer has focused on adding proven Premier League quality, and Tielemans fits that profile after successful spells with Leicester City and Aston Villa.
Supporters will now get their first chance to see Tielemans wearing the famous number 18 shirt during United’s pre-season preparations, with expectations high that he can become the latest player to enjoy success while wearing one of the club’s most recognisable squad numbers.
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