Reijnders says Man City role, Saudi offer prompted surprise summer switch

Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders revealed on Thursday that he left Manchester City for Al Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia after becoming unhappy with his assigned role at the English club. The 28-year-old joined the Saudi Pro League side in a surprise £61 million ($69.7 million) move, expressing his preference for a dynamic midfielder position that allows him to switch between attack and defense.

Reijnders noticed that his role at City was shifting more towards an attacking midfielder, prompting him to consider a change of scenery. He told reporters that he initially believed his career might be over after such a move, but discussions with Al Qadsiah coach Brendan Rodgers convinced him otherwise. Reijnders believes he can enjoy three or four enjoyable years in Saudi Arabia before returning to Europe.

The Dutch national team player, who has signed a deal worth around 100 million euros over four years, also stated that the Saudi league is of higher quality than the Eredivisie (Dutch league) and emphasized his desire to support his future family, ensuring they live comfortably.