Youri Tielemans impressed Manchester United figures during a 26-minute debut in a 1-1 draw with Paris St-Germain, suggesting he could become an important midfield option alongside Bruno Fernandes. His calm passing and ability to help United retain possession were seen as particularly encouraging after scrutiny of the club’s summer transfer activity.

United triggered a previously undisclosed £35m release clause to sign the 29-year-old from Aston Villa on a five-year contract until June 2031. Tielemans replaced Mason Mount, who left after 20 minutes following a blow to his foot as a precaution, while Marcus Rashford is set to rejoin the squad for its training camp in Ireland after Barcelona did not exercise their £26m purchase option.