Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans has become the latest target of Roy Keane's sharp tongue during the World Cup. The former Manchester United captain, now a pundit for ITV, did not hold back after Belgium's goalless draw with Iran in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Keane's Verdict on Belgium's Performance
Speaking on ITV's coverage, Keane delivered a scathing assessment of the match. 'In terms of the quality of the game, I thought it was rubbish. Really bad,' he said. 'Obviously, Belgium had a couple of really good chances, but the standard in terms of the passing, movement, decision-making...so poor.'
Tielemans captained his country and played the full 90 minutes, while his Villa teammate Amadou Onana remained on the substitutes' bench. The result leaves Belgium under pressure to improve in their upcoming group matches.
Belgium Boss Responds
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia acknowledged his team's struggles in front of goal. 'We lacked efficiency up front. I expected this kind of game, with nearly 70 per cent possession, plenty of crosses and lots of shots,' he said. 'We hit the target, but we didn't test the goalkeeper enough. Playing with ten men didn't help either.'
Garcia added: 'We've had matches like this before and usually scored at least three goals. That's part of a slow start to a World Cup. At times, we looked a bit hesitant.'
Keane's Previous Criticism of McGinn
This is not the first time Keane has singled out an Aston Villa player. Earlier in the tournament, he sparked controversy by calling Villa captain John McGinn a 'pub player' when not at his best for club and country. However, Keane has since clarified his comments.
'If you asked me if I would be in the trenches with John McGinn, you bet your life I would,' Keane said. 'I have huge time for him. A brilliant player. Sometimes you make a tongue in cheek comment - it was no disrespect to the player. I think he is outstanding.'
Impact on Aston Villa Players
The scrutiny on Villa's players at the World Cup highlights the pressure of international football. Tielemans, who joined Aston Villa from Leicester City in 2023, will be hoping to bounce back in Belgium's next fixture. Meanwhile, McGinn continues to be a key figure for both club and country, with Keane's clarification likely to ease any lingering tension.
