The brutal honesty from former Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has sent shockwaves through the football world, as he laid bare the true motivations behind his £52 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah. After a solitary, challenging season at the Etihad, the Dutch international's candid admission reveals a focus on generational financial security, declaring, "I can't deny that [I'm a money grabber]." His revelation offers a rare, unfiltered look into the modern game's economic incentives.
Key Points:
- Reijnders endured a frustrating single season at Manchester City after a £46.5m move from AC Milan.
- He openly admitted his £52m transfer to Al-Qadsiah was a "money grab" to secure generational wealth.
- The Dutch international insists the Saudi Pro League is a competitive environment, even rating it above the Eredivisie.
- Reijnders aims to return to elite European football after a few years in Saudi Arabia, maintaining his Netherlands national team spot.
From Etihad Disappointment to Saudi Stardom
Reijnders arrived at the Etihad Stadium with immense promise from AC Milan, a £46.5 million investment meant to bolster Manchester City's midfield. However, his tenure proved short-lived and frustrating. The midfielder struggled to find his rhythm, making 50 appearances but never truly cementing a regular starting berth.
The core issue stemmed from tactical deployment. Reijnders openly expressed his discomfort playing as an attacking number ten, far from his preferred dynamic, box-to-box number eight role. This disconnect ultimately led to his £52 million departure to Al-Qadsiah this summer, despite interest from European giants like Atletico Madrid and Juventus.
Unfiltered Truth: "I Can't Deny I'm a Money Grabber"
While initial reports cited Al-Qadsiah's "ambition" as a primary draw, Reijnders has now offered a refreshingly candid confession about his switch to the Saudi Pro League. Speaking to NOS, the Dutch international didn't mince words regarding his motivations. His multi-year contract is reportedly worth a staggering £86 million.
"Me a money grabber? I can't deny that," Reijnders stated bluntly. He continued, outlining his desire for absolute financial security: "Once my playing career is over, I don’t want to have to work anymore. By signing this contract, I can make sure even my grandchildren are financially secure, so why wouldn’t I do it?" This raw honesty offers a rare glimpse into the financial realities driving top-tier football transfers.
Dispelling Myths: The Saudi League's Rising Calibre
Despite the undeniable financial pull, Reijnders is quick to dispel notions that his move signifies a winding down of his competitive career. He maintains that the Saudi Pro League, where Al-Qadsiah currently sits fourth, demands high-level performance.
"It's not like I can play at 65 percent every match there," Reijnders asserted. He controversially rated the Saudi league, brimming with "big names," as "even higher than the Eredivisie." He challenges critics to witness the standard before passing judgment.
A Strategic Career Move, Not a Retirement Plan?
Crucially, Reijnders views his time in Saudi Arabia as a strategic phase rather than a career dead-end. Conversations with Al-Qadsiah manager Brendan Rodgers reinforced his belief that a return to elite European football is a viable prospect in three to four years.
"He (Rodgers) said that I can play here perfectly fine for three or four years with great pleasure and then go back to Europe," Reijnders revealed. "That is also my goal." This perspective suggests a calculated approach, leveraging significant financial gain while aiming for a later return to Europe's top divisions.
International Ambitions Remain Undimmed
Perhaps the most compelling evidence that Reijnders' career is far from over is his continued inclusion in the Netherlands national squad under new coach Xavi. Xavi himself has publicly defended the quality of the Saudi Pro League, ensuring Reijnders' international prospects remain intact.
With three goals in his first five games for Al-Qadsiah, Reijnders is demonstrating his form. He now looks to translate this club success onto the international stage as the Dutch implement their fresh tactical vision.
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