Tijjani Reijnders: “I don’t want to have to work again after my career”

Tijjani Reijnders says he does not want to be forced to work again once his career is over. The Dutch midfielder left Manchester City for Al Qadsiah in a deal worth €61 million ($69.70 million), having wanted to play a dynamic role between attack and defence.

At City, Reijnders says he was increasingly being restricted to an attacking-midfield role, a position that did not suit him. “During pre-season, I realised things were heading back in that direction at City, and I started asking myself whether I wanted another season like that,” he told journalists while the Netherlands national team were preparing for their Nations League match against Germany.

The Dutchman said his honest answer was no and that he then wanted to explore other options. According to him, the club told him he had permission to do so. He also said he could not turn down the financial offer made by Al Qadsiah.

Reijnders acknowledged that he initially believed moving to Saudi Arabia could signal the end of a career at the highest level. However, his discussions with Al Qadsiah coach Brendan Rodgers convinced him otherwise. “He told me I could have three or four very enjoyable years here and then return to Europe. There are already enough examples of that. That is my aim too,” he said.

The midfielder also rates the Saudi league more highly than the Eredivisie because of the big names playing in it. He urged those who want to judge Saudi football to watch it first.

On a personal level, Reijnders stressed that he now wants to secure a good future for the next generations of his family. “If this decision means my grandchildren can also live comfortably, why wouldn’t I do it?” he added.

According to some reports, his contract in Saudi Arabia could be worth around €100 million over four years.