Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has delivered a significant boost to the club's supporters by declaring that midfielder Youri Tielemans is currently experiencing the finest form of his professional career.
The Belgian international recently returned to action after a spell on the sidelines, making a substitute appearance in the 2-0 victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv. This marked only his fifth appearance of the season, having previously missed 10 of Villa's matches.
Tielemans' Return to Fitness
Emery's comments come at a crucial time, with Villa preparing for a Premier League clash against Leeds United this Sunday. The potential for Tielemans to start has increased following a minor injury picked up by his compatriot, Amadou Onana, during international duty.
Onana had been in impressive form, partnering Boubacar Kamara in midfield, but his setback opens the door for the reigning Player of the Season to make his mark from the beginning of the match.
Emery's Confidence in a Key Leader
Speaking about the midfielder's importance, Emery was effusive in his praise. "He is very important, Youri Tielemans. He is one of the leaders in the dressing room and on the field," the manager admitted.
Emery elaborated on the player's development, stating, "He is now, I think, in the best moment of his career. Last year, he performed fantastically and started fantastically too, but after his injury, he stopped his progression."
The manager confirmed that Tielemans has reintegrated successfully, training well with the squad after also gaining minutes with the Belgian national team.
Boosting Villa's Tactical Strength
Emery is confident that Tielemans' return will elevate the entire team's performance. He highlighted the player's unique qualities, noting his capacity to strengthen Villa's style of play through combination and linking moves.
"It is very important because he is adding experience and skills," Emery said. "If we want to play in combination, we can link through players like him with the capacity to make our style stronger."
This return is particularly promising given that Villa entered the November international break on a spectacular run of form, having won eight of their last 10 matches in all competitions—a period where Tielemans was largely unavailable.
Emery concluded with an optimistic outlook for the squad's depth, saying, "When we have all the players ready to play, I am delighted to choose the players in the different moments and competitions. Now, with Youri Tielemans, we can get better."
