Youri Tielemans was excellent again against Manchester City. Unai Emery manages to perfectly exploit his qualities.
The phase officially brought him no goals or assists. But with its silky pre-assist in the depth, Youri Tielemans nonetheless proved decisive in Aston Villa's opening goal. His take on the ball in midfield took Emiliano Martinez's leather into an ideal situation behind the City defense.
“I saw the space and asked Martinez for the ball. He puts the ball into my path perfectly, I just have to control, turn around and make the right pass. I felt Stones coming, but he was a little late. It was a great goal in a very good match,” he told La Derniere Heure.
Pep Guardiola admitted after the match, Aston Villa made the difference in midfield. It must be said that Tielemans was not alone. Amadou Onana was also very active, as was Boubacar Kamara.
“Yes, it was fun. Especially with Onana and Kamara behind me. Two boys who know how to clean up everything, which they did fantastically. It also freed me offensively” confirms Tielemans.
Automation, particularly with Onana, which could be valuable for the Red Devils. With Kevin De Bruyne increasingly unavailable, Tielemans could provide this creative guarantee. It has already been tried in a higher position, but so far it has not always been a great success.
