Tijjani Reijnders has completed a £52 million transfer from Manchester City to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah, bringing an end to his one-year spell at the Etihad Stadium. The Netherlands international midfielder leaves City after a season in which he helped the club secure two domestic trophies.
The 28-year-old arrived at Manchester City from AC Milan in June 2025 for £46.5 million, with expectations that he would add creativity, energy and attacking quality to Pep Guardiola’s midfield.
However, despite making regular appearances, Reijnders struggled to establish himself as a key figure in the squad.
The Dutch midfielder featured 50 times across all competitions during his only campaign with City, scoring seven goals.
He played an important role as the club won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during the 2025/26 season, including scoring on his Premier League debut in a 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Reijnders was also part of the Netherlands squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, starting all three group-stage matches before remaining an unused substitute as the Dutch side were eliminated by Morocco in the last 32.
His departure follows a period of significant midfield changes at Manchester City. Rodri completed a £65 million move to Barcelona, while Bernardo Silva left after the expiration of his contract to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
New City manager Enzo Maresca also omitted Reijnders from the squad for the Community Shield defeat against Arsenal, further indicating that the midfielder’s future was away from the club.
He now begins a new chapter in Saudi Arabia under former Liverpool and Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers.
Reijnders Reflects On Manchester City Spell
After completing his move, Reijnders expressed gratitude for his time at Manchester City and praised the support he received from everyone at the club. “I have been incredibly privileged to play for Manchester City, and I have relished every minute of my time here,” Reijnders said.
The former AC Milan midfielder also appreciated the warm reception he received when he joined the one-time Uefa Champions League winners last year.
“From the very moment I arrived, everyone at the club, players, coaches and staff, made me feel so welcome and a part of the Manchester City family. I would also like to say a special thank you to the City fans who were so warm and supportive both to me and my family.”
Tijjani Reijnders
Manchester City also confirmed the transfer and highlighted the midfielder’s contribution during his time with the club.
Director of Football Hugo Viana praised Reijnders’ professionalism and impact. “Tijjani more than made his mark across his time here at Manchester City. He impressed everyone with his talent, application, hard work and total dedication and was the perfect professional,” Viana said.
Al-Qadsiah Add Midfield Quality With Reijnders Arrival
Al-Qadsiah confirmed the signing as part of their ambition to strengthen the squad and compete among the leading clubs including Al Hilal, Al Nasr and Al Ahly in Saudi football. The midfielder completed and passed his medical before signing his contract at the club’s headquarters.
The Saudi club described Reijnders as a player who will bring technical quality and experience to their first-team setup as they continue their development.
“AlQadsiah Club Company has completed the signing of Netherlands international midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from Manchester City, adding further quality and experience to the first-team squad as the club continues to build toward competing at the highest level.”
Al Qadsiah Club Company
Known for his ability to control the tempo of matches, carry the ball forward and create opportunities from midfield, Reijnders is expected to become a central figure in Rodgers’ plans as they seek to improve on their third place finish in the Saudi Pro League last season.
His move marks another major European arrival in the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Qadsiah hoping the Dutchman’s blend of creativity, intelligence and goal threat can help them challenge at the highest level domestically.
Reijnders leaves Manchester City with 50 appearances, seven goals and two trophies, while beginning a new challenge that will see him continue his career in Saudi Arabia.
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