Reijnders' Manchester City Exit Agreed

Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is set to depart the Etihad Stadium after just a single season with the club. A £52 million transfer to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Qadsiah has been agreed, according to reports.

The move marks a swift end to Reijnders' time in English football, having arrived at City only last year. The 24-year-old Dutch international will now head to the Middle East as part of the ongoing trend of high-profile players moving to Saudi Arabia.

While the deal is not yet officially completed, sources indicate that personal terms have been finalised and a medical is scheduled. Al-Qadsiah, who gained promotion to the top flight last season, are aiming to make a statement in the Saudi Pro League.

Context: A Brief Tenure in Manchester

Reijnders joined Manchester City in the summer of 2024 from AZ Alkmaar for a reported fee of €35 million. He was seen as a versatile midfield option, capable of playing both as a deep-lying playmaker and in a more advanced role.

During his time at City, Reijnders made a limited impact in the first team, featuring in a handful of Premier League and cup matches. He struggled to displace established stars such as Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne, limiting his opportunities.

The sale for £52 million represents a significant profit for City, who will recoup more than they invested. This aligns with the club's recent strategy of selling fringe players for inflated fees, particularly to Saudi clubs, who have shown a willingness to pay premium prices.

From a tactical perspective, Reijnders' departure leaves City with a slightly thinner midfield, but they still boast ample depth. His exit may also pave the way for younger talents to step up, such as Nico O'Reilly or Matheus Nunes.

Impact: Financial and Squad Implications

Manchester City's profit on Reijnders will be recorded as pure accounting gain, boosting their financial fair play position. The club have been active in the transfer market, and this sale could fund further incomings before the deadline.

For Al-Qadsiah, securing a player of Reijnders' calibre is a coup. The club have already invested heavily under their new ownership, and this signing signals their ambition to compete for trophies in Saudi Arabia.

Reijnders will link up with former Premier League players in the Saudi league, which has become a popular destination for stars in their prime. He will join a growing list of Dutch players to move to the Gulf, following in the footsteps of Georginio Wijnaldum and Steven Berghuis.

  • Reijnders made just 12 appearances for City in all competitions last season, starting only three Premier League games.
  • He scored two goals and provided one assist during his time in Manchester.
  • The £52m fee is a club-record sale for a midfielder who was at the club for under a year.

What's Next for Manchester City and Reijnders?

Manchester City will proceed without Reijnders, and manager Pep Guardiola is expected to use the funds to strengthen other areas, possibly a right-back or a wide forward. City remain in contention for all major honours, and this sale is unlikely to derail their season.

Reijnders will now prepare for a new chapter in Saudi Arabia, where he will be expected to be a key figure in Al-Qadsiah's midfield. The transfer window remains open, and further moves could be on the horizon for both clubs.

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