Tijjani Reijnders has completed a move from Manchester City to Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah in a deal reportedly worth about £52 million. The Netherlands international’s transfer was confirmed by Manchester City on August 19, 2026, ending his stay at the Premier League club after just over a year. {“:”Dutch international Tijjani Reijnders has transferred to Saudi Arabian football club Al Qadsiah in a permanent deal, following a little over a year with Manchester City. The move was officially announced by the Premier League club on Wednesday,
The transfer brings an unexpectedly early end to Reijnders’ time in England and marks another major addition to Al-Qadsiah’s growing squad.
From AC Milan to Manchester City
Reijnders joined Manchester City from AC Milan in the summer of 2025 after establishing himself as an influential midfielder in Serie A.
His arrival was seen as part of City’s efforts to strengthen their midfield with a player capable of carrying the ball, creating opportunities and contributing goals.
However, his spell at the Etihad lasted only one season before the midfielder decided to begin another chapter of his career in Saudi Arabia.
A New Beginning in Saudi Arabia
Al-Qadsiah’s decision to sign Reijnders highlights the club’s ambition to attract established international talent.
The Saudi side has been strengthening its squad with experienced players from European football, and Reijnders brings considerable top-level experience from his time in both Italy and England.
For the midfielder, the move also presents an opportunity to take on a more prominent role and become an important figure within his new team.
What the Transfer Means for Manchester City
From Manchester City’s perspective, Reijnders’ departure provides both financial and squad-planning benefits.
The reported £52 million fee is close to the amount the club invested in signing him from Milan, meaning City have avoided a major financial loss on a player who spent only one season at the club.
His departure also creates space for the club to continue reshaping its midfield and pursue players who better fit the team’s evolving tactical plans.
Another Major Midfield Change
Reijnders’ exit is part of a broader period of change in Manchester City’s midfield.
The club has been looking to refresh the position and introduce new players capable of providing energy, creativity and defensive balance.
As a result, Reijnders’ departure should be viewed within the wider context of City’s squad restructuring rather than as an isolated transfer.
A Significant Signing for Al-Qadsiah
For Al-Qadsiah, the deal represents an important addition to the squad.
Reijnders arrives with experience at major European clubs and international football, giving the Saudi team a midfielder capable of competing at a high level.
His technical ability and versatility could make him an important part of the club’s plans as it seeks to establish itself among the leading teams in the Saudi Pro League.
What Lies Ahead for Reijnders?
The move gives Reijnders an opportunity to start afresh after a relatively brief spell at Manchester City.
Rather than competing for a place in a highly competitive Premier League squad, he can now aim to become one of Al-Qadsiah’s key players.
The challenge will be to adapt quickly to a different league, maintain his level of performance and justify the significant investment made by his new club.
Conclusion
Tijjani Reijnders’ transfer from Manchester City to Al-Qadsiah marks a surprising change of direction in the midfielder’s career.
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For Manchester City, the transfer provides an opportunity to continue rebuilding the midfield while recovering much of its original investment. For Al-Qadsiah, it represents another statement of ambition.