€100 million: Reijnders explains his departure from Manchester City
The Dutch midfielder explains that he left City to find a more complete role and secure his family's future with a Saudi contract estimated at €100 million.
Tijjani Reijnders has explained his surprising departure from Manchester City by citing his sporting role and the financial offer from Al Qadsiah. The 28-year-old Dutch midfielder joined the Saudi club for €61 million, with a contract valued at approximately €100 million over four years.
At City, Reijnders wanted to play in a dynamic role, balancing recovery and forward play. He claims to have realized during the summer preparation that he would be used higher up the pitch. This prospect led him to request a transfer, which was accepted by the English club.
The contract amount also weighed heavily in his decision. The Dutch international believes this choice will allow him to secure his family’s future and avoid working after his playing career. However, Al Qadsiah has not officially disclosed the details of his salary.
Discussions with Brendan Rodgers, the coach of the Saudi club, alleviated his remaining sporting concerns. Reijnders feels he can spend three or four seasons in the Saudi Pro League before returning to Europe. He also considers the Saudi league to be superior to the Dutch Eredivisie.
Transferred in August after just one season at Manchester City, the midfielder is currently preparing with the Netherlands for the Nations League match against Germany, scheduled for Thursday. He joined Manchester City in 2025 after being named the best midfielder in Serie A while with AC Milan.
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