Former Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has candidly admitted that financial gain drove his lucrative transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah.
Tijjani Reijnders Admits He Chased Money with Saudi Arabia Move
The Netherlands international, who left the Etihad Stadium last month after just one season, revealed he prioritized long-term wealth over European football.
Reijnders completed a £60million switch to Al Qadsiah following the arrival of new City boss Enzo Maresca.
The Italian manager quickly reshaped his midfield, signing Elliot Anderson, Ayoub Bouaddi, and Enzo Fernandez.
That spending spree pushed Reijnders down the pecking order, making his decision straightforward.
Atletico Madrid expressed interest, but the two clubs failed to agree on a fee. Al Qadsiah had no such problem, meeting City’s valuation before tying up the deal.
Now, after six appearances for his new club, the 28-year-old opened up about his motives.
“There were other options, but they did not come through or they stalled over the asking price,” Reijnders told Dutch outlet Voetbalzone.
“In the end, I started to think: do I want to stay another season at Man City without being completely happy, or do I choose to take on a new adventure? That was when I spoke with Al Qadsiah and with the coach.
And after that conversation, I became very excited.”
When asked whether money played a significant role, Reijnders refused to hide the truth.
“Money definitely plays a part in it. After my football career ends, I don’t want to work again,” he added.
“I didn’t have to after leaving Manchester City anyway, but now I can also help future generations of my family.
Security was the priority. I won’t lie about it, if my grandchildren can live off this, then why shouldn’t I?”
The midfielder also fired back at critics who accused him of chasing a payday. “When you’re offered that kind of salary, just try saying no,” he said.
“Everyone can take the moral high ground and say, ‘I would never do that,’ but I’m pretty sure most people would accept it.
In fact, most people would probably accept a promotion in their own job. We’re talking here about the kind of money that is almost impossible to turn down.”
Reijnders dismissed suggestions that his career would fade in Saudi Arabia, insisting the move secures his family’s future while offering a fresh challenge.
