Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has completed a lucrative move from Manchester City to Saudi Arabian side Al-Qadsiah. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reports the deal could earn the Dutch international over 100 million euros across five seasons.
Journalist Mike Verweij revealed the details this week. Reijnders signs a four-year contract with an option for a fifth season. The transfer fee amounts to 61 million euros, allowing Al-Qadsiah to beat English club Nottingham Forest to his signature. This guarantees the player at least 80 million euros, a significant raise from the approximately 7 million euros per year he earned at Manchester City.
What does this mean for the Netherlands?
Reijnders' transfer comes at a key time for the Dutch national team as they build their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Players performing at a high level have an advantage for selection. Reijnders is a established figure in the Oranje midfield. His experience in the Premier League and now in Saudi Arabia brings a different dynamic. You can view the current squad composition on our squad page.
The financial security can help the 28-year-old focus entirely on his performances for the national team. The World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is the primary objective. Coach Ronald Koeman will monitor his players' form closely. However, Reijnders' departure from England means he will no longer be playing weekly against Europe's absolute elite.
How did the transfer unfold?
Negotiations progressed quickly. Reijnders did not appear at Manchester City training on Thursday to avoid any injury risk before the switch. He moved from AC Milan to Manchester City just last year. Now he chooses a new adventure in Dammam with Al-Qadsiah, an ambitiously investing club.
The Saudi Pro League has attracted several big names recently with financially compelling offers. For Reijnders, who started his career at PEC Zwolle and broke through via AZ Alkmaar and AC Milan, this is a logical step at this stage of his career. The total compensation package could therefore exceed 100 million euros.
What are Reijnders' statistics?
Reijnders has developed into a reliable force for the Netherlands in recent years. He is known for his passing, dribbling, and work rate. His presence in the squad is important for balance. Match sharpness and fitness are essential in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup. Current data for all internationals is available on our stats page.
The midfielder will be expected to take on a leading role at his new club, which suits his character and experience. For the Dutch national team, it is positive that a player of his caliber gets regular playing time, regardless of the league. The coming season is vital for his preparation for the global tournament.
What's next for the Netherlands?
The focus for the Dutch national team is now fully on preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Upcoming friendly matches are essential to fine-tune tactics and finalize the selection. Reijnders' transfer is one of many personal developments the staff is tracking. The full schedule of practice matches and the eventual World Cup fixtures can be found on our fixtures page.
Koeman and his staff continue building a team that aims to seriously compete for the world title. Every player in form and exuding confidence contributes to that goal. Reijnders' financial deal provides peace and stability, which could benefit his performances in orange. The coming months will reveal how this move influences his game.
