Axel Tuaznebe has stated that he made the ‘right decision’ in staying at Manchester United this season, as Aston Villa were keen for him to make a return to the club this summer.
Centre-back Tuanzebe spent the past 18 months on-loan at Villa, and last season, he helped the club earn promotion to the Premier League when Dean Smith’s side beat Derby County in the Championship play-off final.
Following that promotion, it was understandable that Villa were keen for him to return to the club on a permanent basis, but a move didn’t materialise, as reported by The Daily Mail.
Now, Tuanzebe, who has been given his first start at Manchester United in their Europa League showdown with Astana, is pleased that he did stay on at his parent club.
“I remember my glimpses in the first team when I was 19,” Tuanzebe told MUFC. “It wasn’t to be then, but the manager just said to keep working hard. Now I’m 21 and things are starting to open more and we have a clearer path of where I want to go and where the team is going. Staying here this season was the right decision.
“You realise when you come into the world of men’s football, and especially the Championship, you realise it’s not all about nice play, it’s also about doing the job and ensuring you get the three points.
“It becomes more of a shift than just enjoying the game. I think I’ve toughened up a lot and have learnt to ride the battles. You know what you’re up against, and what you have to do to ensure you win each game.“
Tuanzebe was immense for Villa last season, as he built a strong partnership with James Chester, at first, and then later on in the season with Tyrone Mings.
With the United man staying at Old Trafford, Villa secured the permanent signature of Mings, signed Bjorn Engels and Brentford defender Ezri Konsa.
Mings and Engels have been the ones who have played at the heart of Villa’s defence, and it is fair to say that they have impressed immensely.
Villa supporters already knew what Mings was all about having watched him in action last season, but not many knew the qualities Engels had in his locker. But he has been showcasing that he has a serious amount of talent during these opening five matches.
