Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has revealed details of his departure from Manchester City and explained why he decided to begin a new chapter with Saudi club Al Qadsiah.
Reijnders joined Al Qadsiah during the summer transfer window from Manchester City in a deal worth €61 million, after spending just one season with the English club.
Why Did Reijnders Leave Manchester City?
Reijnders explained that the role he was given at Manchester City did not fully match the way he wanted to play.
The Dutch midfielder increasingly found himself operating as an attacking midfielder, while he preferred to play as an all-round midfielder capable of contributing in both attacking and defensive phases.
During preseason preparations, Reijnders noticed that the situation was beginning to develop in a similar direction again. That led him to question whether remaining at Manchester City for another season in the same role was the right decision.
He eventually decided to explore another opportunity after receiving the club’s approval to leave.
Reijnders on His Move to Saudi Arabia
The Al Qadsiah midfielder also addressed the criticism he received after moving to the Saudi Pro League.
He admitted that, initially, he viewed the move in a similar way to those who consider leaving Europe’s highest level of football a step backward.
However, a conversation with Al Qadsiah head coach Brendan Rodgers helped change his perspective.
Rodgers told Reijnders that he could enjoy several successful seasons in Saudi Arabia before potentially returning to European football in the future.
Reijnders Praises the Development of Saudi Football
Reijnders pointed to the number of prominent players competing in the Saudi Pro League as evidence of the competition’s development.
The Dutch international also argued that the level of the Saudi league has become higher than that of the Dutch league in his view.
He called on people who want to assess Saudi football to watch the competition first before making judgments about its quality.
The Financial Factor in Reijnders' Decision
Reijnders did not separate the financial aspect from his decision to join Al Qadsiah.
He acknowledged that the move provides him with an opportunity to secure his family’s future over the long term. At the same time, he stressed that he was not financially forced to make the move after leaving Manchester City.
Providing a stable and comfortable life for his family and future generations was one of the factors that encouraged him to accept the Saudi offer.
What Is Next for Tijjani Reijnders?
Reijnders' comments indicate that his decision to leave Manchester City was influenced by several factors rather than finances alone.
His role within the team, his ambitions as a midfielder, his conversations with Brendan Rodgers and his desire to secure his family’s long-term future all played a part in his decision.
The Dutch midfielder is now beginning a new chapter with Al Qadsiah after spending one season at Manchester City.
Why did Tijjani Reijnders leave Manchester City?
Reijnders said he was not fully comfortable with his role, particularly his increasing use as an attacking midfielder.
How much did Al Qadsiah pay for Reijnders?
The transfer was worth €61 million.
Why did Reijnders choose the Saudi Pro League?
His tactical role, the financial offer and the opportunity to secure his family’s long-term future were among the factors behind his decision.
What did Reijnders say about the Saudi league?
He said he believes its level has become higher than the Dutch league and urged people to watch the competition before judging it.
Could Reijnders return to Europe?
He said he could spend several successful seasons in Saudi Arabia before potentially returning to European football.
