Tijjani Reijnders' Father Reveals Why Midfielder Left Manchester City for Al Qadsiah

The father of Tijjani Reijnders has opened up about the midfielder’s surprising transfer from Manchester City to Saudi Arabia’s Al Qadsiah. While big money was part of the deal, Martin Reijnders, who is also Tijjani’s business advisor, says steep price demands from European clubs played a major role.

The Story Behind the Transfer

Reijnders made headlines when he moved from Manchester City to Al Qadsiah, a club in the Saudi Pro League. At 28 years old and a Dutch international, the switch seemed unexpected, especially with a reported four-year contract worth 100 million euros attracting attention. Yet, Martin insists the reasons go beyond just cash.

In an interview, Martin admitted that the move would cause debate but pointed out that a complicated mix of sporting ambitions and transfer demands shaped Tijjani’s exit from the Etihad Stadium.

Valuation Issues Blocked European Moves

Martin revealed that clubs like Juventus, Newcastle United, and Atletico Madrid showed real interest after Tijjani grew frustrated with his reduced role under new manager Enzo Maresca. Still, the transfer stalled because Manchester City set a high price no European club could meet.

• Martin Reijnders: "Tijjani couldn’t just join any club. City’s asking price was too high for interested teams in Europe."
• Al Qadsiah: The only club able to meet the financial demands.

Initially, Tijjani’s camp rejected the offer twice before seriously considering it due to the unique financial backing of Al Qadsiah.

Sporting Ambitions Play a Role

Aside from money, Al Qadsiah’s plans helped convince Tijjani to accept the move. The club secured qualification for the Asian Champions League and signed several international stars to become a force in Asian football.

"The financial offer is incredible," Martin said, "but money only mattered when Tijjani had to choose between sitting on the bench at City or playing regularly in a team built around him."

Looking Ahead

Tijjani leaves Manchester City after making a mark by winning the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in the 2025–26 season. Having represented the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup, he now focuses fully on his new challenge in the Middle East.

As Al Qadsiah aims to grow on the continental stage, Reijnders wants to be a key player in their ambitious project. This transfer ends one chapter of his career and starts a new, demanding, and lucrative journey abroad.

• Upcoming fixtures:
• Crystal Palace vs Manchester City – 28 Aug 2026, 21:00
• Al Qadsiah vs Al-Faisaly – 30 Aug 2026, 20:00