Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans has called on Belgium to keep their expectations in check ahead of the World Cup, despite the squad’s desire to compete with the tournament’s strongest nations.
The 29-year-old enjoyed another impressive season at Villa Park, playing a pivotal role as Aston Villa secured a top-four Premier League finish and lifted the Europa League trophy under Unai Emery. Tielemans also opened the scoring in the final, helping Villa end their long wait for major silverware.
Although there has been speculation surrounding his future in recent months, suggestions of a summer departure have been downplayed, with Aston Villa determined to retain one of their most influential players.
Tielemans also reportedly rejected interest from Saudi Arabia earlier this year, reinforcing his commitment to competing at the highest level in European football.
Attention has now shifted to international duty, with the Belgian captain preparing to lead his country into a third World Cup campaign.
Belgium head into the tournament in encouraging form after winning both of their pre-World Cup friendlies against Croatia and Tunisia.
Tielemans played a key role in those victories, registering a goal and an assist as Rudi Garcia’s side completed their preparations on a positive note.
Despite the growing optimism surrounding the squad, the Aston Villa star believes Belgium must strike a balance between ambition and realism.
Speaking to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, Tielemans stressed the importance of staying grounded while maintaining the desire to achieve something special.
“The World Cup is a major event,” he said.
“We wanted to give our supporters a great send-off before leaving, and I think we managed to do that.
“As players, we always want to win and go as far as possible, but we also have to be realistic.
“There are still a few things we need to improve before the first game, and then we’ll see how far we can go.
“We showed positive signs in the two friendly matches.
“There is focus within the group.
“We have the right mentality, and that is the most important thing.”
Belgium have been placed in Group G alongside Egypt, Iran and New Zealand and will hope this tournament finally delivers the World Cup success that has eluded several talented generations.
Tielemans enters the competition with significant experience, having already featured seven times at previous World Cups.
This summer, however, marks a new chapter as he prepares to lead the Red Devils as captain on football’s biggest stage.
The midfielder could also benefit from a familiar partnership in the heart of midfield, with fellow Aston Villa player Amadou Onana expected to play an important role for Belgium throughout the tournament.
