Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Wed 1 April 2026 7:22, UK

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Youri Tielemans made his first start since returning from injury for Aston Villa on Tuesday as Belgium drew 1-1 with Mexico in the United States.

The 28-year-old made his return against West Ham before the break, after spending around six weeks on the injury table with an ankle problem.

Unai Emery’s team won just one of their seven Premier League games without the services of Tielemans, who was key to the fantastic run earlier in the season.

The Villans had been on a run of 12 wins in 13 games and in contention for the title, but have fallen away in recent months

Aston Villa’s form will undoubtedly improve amid the return of Tielemans, who assisted Dodi Lukebakio’s equaliser after Jorge Sanchez had put Mexico ahead on Tuesday.

The terrific stats behind Youri Tielemans vs Mexico

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Tielemans will stay at Villa this summer, despite some murmurs of interest from the Saudi Pro League.

And there is little reason why the Villans would even entertain the idea, considering how crucial he has been for them this season. Tuesday’s performance was yet another reminder of his quality.

The midfielder did not have to do much to claim an assist for Lukebakio’s goal, with the winger finding the net with a beautifully curved shot from outside the box after he had been found by his midfielder.

But Tielemans was a constant in the Belgium midfield in his 63 minutes on the pitch, continuously making his presence felt.

It was his defensive work that stood out the most, in fact. He recorded two tackles, two interceptions and a superb five recoveries.

And in the duel, the 28-year-old was impressive, winning all but one of those he contested while also winning three free-kicks.

International breaks can often serve as a frustration for clubs, but this one appears to have benefited both Tielemans and Villa.

What Unai Emery said about Tielemans decision

There was some surprise when it was announced that Tielemans would be joining up with the Belgium camp, despite just having returned from injury.

Villa would have liked to have kept him at home to oversee his full recovery, but there is an acknowledgement from both sides that he needs to play, as well.

Belgium would have been especially keen to have Tielemans back, considering that he is Rudi Garcia’s captain.

“The national team is very important,” said Emery when asked about his involvement. “His commitment with us is huge but I wanted to give him the opportunity to go now with his national team. For him, it’s very important.”