Ferdinand: Tielemans must step up for Man Utd after Baleba injury
Rio Ferdinand says Youri Tielemans must seize his chance at Manchester United after Carlos Baleba's hamstring injury. Baleba limped off during United's 3-2 Champions League win over AS Roma at Old Trafford mid-week, with Tielemans replacing him in the 51st minute.
Now Baleba is set to miss Sunday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa, and Tielemans could slot straight into the starting XI. On his Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the United legend said: "Great to see Tielemans back in. Let's hope he continues... you want to make sure he goes on a little run and gets some form, gets the level up and becomes a part of it."
For Nigerian fans who follow the EPL religiously — whether for fantasy leagues, betting, or pure passion — this is the midfield storyline to watch. Tielemans has quality but needs consistent minutes. Sunday vs Villa at Old Trafford (kickoff 2pm Nigeria time) is his audition.
Will Tielemans finally nail down a starting spot, or is this just a brief cameo before Baleba returns?