
Manchester City announced the acquisition of Dutch midfielder Tijani Reijnders from AC Milan on June 9, 2025, in a €60 million deal, marking a significant coup for the Premier League champions. The 26-year-old, known for his versatility and dynamic box-to-box play, joins Pep Guardiola’s squad to address midfield depth concerns following Kevin De Bruyne’s injury-plagued 2024-25 season and departure.
Reijnders’ arrival, celebrated by Cityzens at the Etihad, signals City’s intent to reclaim the Champions League after a semi-final exit, blending youth with their star-studded roster.
Reijnders, a product of Ajax’s academy, shone at Milan since his 2023 move, scoring 12 goals in 48 Serie A appearances in 2024-25, earning praise for his vision and tackling. Guardiola, speaking at a press conference, lauded Reijnders’ “Dutch elegance,” likening him to Frenkie de Jong.
The transfer, facilitated by City’s Abu Dhabi owners, outmaneuvered rivals Liverpool, with Reijnders signing a five-year contract. Milan’s Paulo Fonseca lamented the loss, citing financial pressures, as fans protested outside San Siro. Reijnders, set to debut against Arsenal, joins Rodri and Phil Foden in a formidable midfield, with City’s 4-3-3 poised to dominate. The move, reported by Sky Sports, underscores City’s ambition, though fans await Reijnders’ adaptation to the Premier League’s intensity.