Tijjani Reijnders
The Netherlands midfielder left Manchester City for Saudi Arabia after just one season, and he is refreshingly honest about why
By Andalo Christine Ingutia
Tijjani Reijnders has offered one of the more candid transfers explanations in recent memory, admitting without apology that financial security was a central reason behind his move from Manchester City to Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah.
The Netherlands international completed the £52 million switch after just one season at City, having arrived from AC Milan. His decision to head to the Middle East raised eyebrows, particularly given his age and the level of European interest that reportedly existed. Atletico Madrid and Juventus were among the clubs linked, but City’s financial demands and Al-Qadsiah’s offer ultimately proved decisive.
Speaking to Dutch broadcaster NOS, Reijnders addressed the criticism head-on. “Me a money grabber? I can’t deny that,” he said. It was the kind of straight answer rarely heard in professional football, and it landed accordingly.
The 26-year-old is reportedly set to earn around £86 million over the course of his contract — figures that, he explained, go beyond personal comfort. “Once my playing career is over, I don’t want to have to work anymore,” he said, adding that the move offered long-term financial security for his family, not just himself. He acknowledged he might have earned enough at City to retire comfortably but argued the scale of the Saudi offer was simply too significant to walk away from.
At City, Reijnders made 50 appearances but never fully nailed down a starting role. He is naturally a number eight — a box-to-box midfielder — but found himself deployed at number ten, a position that did not suit him. The fit was never quite right.
He was firm, however, in defending his new surroundings. Al-Qadsiah sit fourth in the Saudi Pro League, and Reijnders pushed back against the assumption that a move east signals the end of ambition. “I think many people have the idea that your career as a top footballer is over when you choose to take such a step,” he said. “I had that feeling at first too.” Returning to Europe, he added, remains part of his long-term thinking.
The early signs have been encouraging. Reijnders scored three goals in his first five matches for the club and has retained his place in the Netherlands squad under newly appointed coach Xavi.
For now, he appears settled — financially secure, performing well, and clear-eyed about what comes next.
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