Youri Tielemans injury concern grows as Villa star wants Belgium trip

Youri Tielemans’ injury situation at Aston Villa has taken an unexpected turn, with the midfielder reportedly keen to travel with Belgium during the March international break despite not being fit to play.

The Belgian international has been sidelined since January after sustaining an ankle injury during Aston Villa’s 2-0 win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park. While he is not expected to be included in Rudi Garcia’s squad for upcoming friendlies against the United States and Mexico, reports suggest he still wants to join the group.

That development could raise concerns for Unai Emery and Aston Villa’s medical staff as they manage his recovery.

According to Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad, Tielemans is eager to travel with the national team to the United States, even though he has been out of action for nearly two months.

The decision is described as a surprise given his current injury status. However, it is understood to be linked to his role within the national setup.

Tielemans was appointed Belgium captain by Rudi Garcia in June 2025 and has worn the armband across multiple international windows since then. His desire to remain involved, even without playing, reflects his commitment to that leadership role.

The report suggests the midfielder wants to contribute to team spirit and maintain his presence within the squad during the upcoming fixtures.

The current ankle issue is not the first setback Tielemans has faced this season.

Earlier in the campaign, the midfielder missed close to two months after suffering a calf injury in September. He returned to action before the November international break but was then hit with another injury in January, which has kept him sidelined since.

That pattern of interruptions has made his fitness management particularly important for Aston Villa as they navigate the latter stages of the season.

From the last few weeks of Aston Villa’s campaign, Emery has had to adjust midfield balance without one of his most reliable players. The club currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, making squad management crucial in the closing stages of the season.

Tielemans’ desire to travel internationally, even in a non-playing capacity, could present a risk if it disrupts his rehabilitation schedule or recovery timeline.

However, it remains too early to determine whether the trip would have any direct impact on his return to action.

Belgium manager Rudi Garcia is expected to confirm his squad for the upcoming friendlies in the coming days, with Tielemans unlikely to be included as a player.

Aston Villa will continue overseeing his recovery process, with the focus on ensuring he returns fully fit for the final stretch of the season. Any decision regarding travel will likely involve discussions between club and national team staff.

Much will depend on how his rehabilitation progresses over the international break period.

Should Youri Tielemans prioritise recovery at Aston Villa, or is travelling with Belgium the right move for his leadership role?